By: Min Kim

The Build Back Better reconciliation bill has passed the House. It is unclear whether the bill will be passed into law, and if so, whether it will change from its current form.

Immigration related provisions

On November 19. 2021 an amended version of the Build Back Better reconciliation bill was passed in the House. The bill contains a measure which would grant five-year parole to immigrants that lack proper documentation if they meet all the following conditions:

• Continuous presence in the United States since before January 1, 2011.
• Filing an application and paying a fee, and
• Passing a background check.

Parole would grant individuals with the right to apply for work authorization, international travel, and driver’s licenses. The bill would allow parole to be extended one time through September 2031.

Additional immigration measures in the Build Back Better bill include increasing legal representation, reducing backlogs, and updating border processing. The bill also includes security for unauthorized immigrants, and processing time improvements for employment-based and diversity visa categories.

To become law, the bill must next pass a Senate vote. The vote is expected to take place soon.

changes to the bill

The Build Back Better bill originally called for $3.5 trillion in investments in childcare, education, paid leave, healthcare, clean energy, and other programs. Its budget has significantly reduced to $1.9 trillion. Items removed from the bill include vision and dental coverage under the Affordable Care Act, and two years of free community college.

Conclusion

Our Chugh, LLP immigration team will continue to monitor the Build Back Better bill and provide immigration-related updates as they become available. For case-specific questions please contact your trusted Chugh, LLP professional.