Growing list of GOP co-sponsors backs legislation offering legal pathways for millions and increasing employment-based immigration
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
A group of 19 House Republicans has joined Democrats in supporting immigration legislation introduced by Rep. Maria Salazar, signaling renewed movement behind a proposal that would create legal pathways for millions of individuals residing in the United States without legal status while expanding employment-based immigration.
The measure, known as the Dignity Act, was first introduced in 2022 during a period of elevated border crossings. The proposal would allow individuals who have been living in the country prior to 2021 to apply for a legal status if they meet specified criteria, including payment of taxes and fines and compliance with background requirements.
Among the Republicans who have signed on as co-sponsors are Reps. Michael Lawler, David G. Valadao, Dan Newhouse, Mike Kelly, Brian Fitzpatrick, Gabe Evans, Marlin Stutzman, Don Bacon, Young Kim, Mario Diaz-Balart, James Baird, Lloyd Smucker, Monica De La Cruz, Nick LaLota, Neal Dunn, Jennifer Kiggans and Zachary Nunn, along with Delegates Kimberlyn King-Hinds and James Moylan.
They join Democratic lawmakers including Henry Cuellar, Jim Costa, Thomas Suozzi, Adriano Espaillat and Salud Carbajal, among others, in backing the bill.
The legislation outlines a process that would provide renewable legal status for individuals meeting eligibility standards, including those who have not committed disqualifying offenses. It also includes provisions related to border enforcement measures such as mandatory E-Verify and completion of physical barriers authorized under prior federal law.
A separate component of the bill would create a pathway to citizenship for an estimated 2.5 million individuals commonly referred to as “DREAMers,” who were previously covered under executive immigration actions.
In addition to legalization provisions, the proposal would expand employment-based immigration by increasing the number of green cards available to foreign workers and allowing international students graduating from U.S. universities to remain in the country for employment.
During a television appearance, Rep. Lawler defended his support for the measure in an exchange that has circulated online, including a clip of the interview.
The bill has not advanced in prior sessions of Congress but has recently gained additional attention with the expanded list of co-sponsors. Lawmakers continue to debate its provisions as broader immigration policy remains a central issue in congressional discussions.
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