Discussion of Bills that remove the Per Country Limits - H.R.3012, H,R. 213

[kd2008]

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/07/us/path-to-green-card-for-illegal-immigrant-family-members-of-americans.html?_r=1&hp

Essentially backdoor amnesty for illegals married to US citizens by lowering the standard for waiver of inadmissibility

This will result in huge fight in Congress and doom HR 3012.

[gcq]

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/07/us/path-to-green-card-for-illegal-immigrant-family-members-of-americans.html?_r=1&hp

Essentially backdoor amnesty for illegals married to US citizens by lowering the standard for waiver of inadmissibility

This will result in huge fight in Congress and doom HR 3012.
This news item will not impact HR 3012 in any way. Please don't spread rumors. We have enough of it already.

[funnysummer]

travel.state.gov
website is not functioning..this could mean they are updating visa bulleting....

[Mavrick]

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/07/us/path-to-green-card-for-illegal-immigrant-family-members-of-americans.html?_r=1&hp

Essentially backdoor amnesty for illegals married to US citizens by lowering the standard for waiver of inadmissibility

This will result in huge fight in Congress and doom HR 3012.

I in fact think this would favor H.R.3012.

[lalaji]

http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CREC-2011-12-17/pd...

Search for '3012' there:

Mr. REID. Mr. President, I now ask for a second reading, and object to my own request, all en bloc.
The PRESIDING OFFICER. Objection is heard

[mesan123]

Did not get anything back...when i typed 3012(may be i m not doing it right).....can you brief what was the details... :)


http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CREC-2011-12-17/pd...

Search for '3012' there:

Mr. REID. Mr. President, I now ask for a second reading, and object to my own request, all en bloc.
The PRESIDING OFFICER. Objection is heard

[longgcque]

lalaji .. please elaborate what you found. on GPO site i was unable to find anything useful ...


http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CREC-2011-12-17/pd...

Search for '3012' there:

Mr. REID. Mr. President, I now ask for a second reading, and object to my own request, all en bloc.
The PRESIDING OFFICER. Objection is heard

[jackbrown_890]

http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CREC-2011-12-17/pd...

Search for '3012' there:

Mr. REID. Mr. President, I now ask for a second reading, and object to my own request, all en bloc.
The PRESIDING OFFICER. Objection is heard

Mr. Lalaji,
what is your point? I didn't get it..
whtever Reid did was as per Rule 14.

[lalaji]

Sorry everyone,It is my bad...I posted this for the rule 14 process and this will be taken the immediate working day.. sorry for the confusion...

[lalaji]

Interesting article from Oh Law Firm..

01/07/2012: Need for Administrative Fix of Employment-Based Immigration - Opportunity for Filing I-485 Applications Upon Approval of I-140 Petition During the Visa Number Regression

Congress has been more or less dysfunctional in grid locks when it comes to immigration legislations to fix ailing immigration systems. As we reported yesterday, USCIS announced its intent to fix administratively part of family-based immigration problems, which should have been fixed by comprehensive immigration reform legislation, to help the immediate relatives of U. S. Citizens who had to endure forced separation for unnecessarily prolonged period of time because of the procedural hurdles. The stateside processing of waivers of inadmissibility would not change the current law in the substantive areas but at least would change it in the procedures such that the separated family members can be reunited in a short period of time. We salute the Obama Administration for this initiative and strongly support the action.
We also encourage the Obama Administration to give equal attention to fix the ailing employment-based immigration system. During the Bush Administration, they considered the administrative fix plan in 26 areas in immigration and some of them have been implemented, including extension of OPT to 29 months for the STEM specialty graduates, expansion of TN nonimmigrant visas for Canadians from one-year to three years, etc. We understand that the Obama Administration had a plan to launch administrative fixes in several areas which have been blocked in political tangle. Now, they take a firm stand on fixing problems in family-based immigration areas. We submit that it is about time for them to stand up and launch administrative fix plans im employment-based sector as well to attract and retain needed foreign workers to strengthen the nation's competitiveness in the global economy. One of the fixes the country need which can be achieved without increasing the employment-based immigrant annual quota is known to be to expand the requirement for eligibility of EB-485 applications from the current rules requiring visa number availability to just approval of I-140 petition. By allowing I-485 filing to those whose need has been tested in the country's labor market through labor certification process and I-140 petition has been approved, these needed foreign workers would be able to continue a normal life contributing to the country's competitiveness as part of important work forces for the nation before and after approval of their I-485 applications. Such administrative fix will help the American businesses and research institutions tremendously.
Reportedly, this idea was presented in the form of an article entitled "Tyranny of Priority Dates," written by attorneys Gary Endelman and Cyrus D. Mehta, which was reportedly sent to USCIS Director Mayorkas. It states that Mr. Mayorkas expressed interest in the ideas contained in Tyranny of Priority Dates at a stakeholder’s meeting between him and some of the members of the Alliance of Business Immigration Lawyers (ABIL), which included Cyrus D. Mehta, on March 3, 2010, in Washington, D.C. It is about time for Mr. Mayorkas to relook at this concept and to assess feasibility of such administrative fix. The suggestion is summarized as follows: Even if INA § 245(a)(3) states that an adjustment of status application can only be filed if a visa number is immediately available, the USCIS has the flexibility to interpret this provision broadly since Congress did not define when a case is “filed,” leaving it to the informed exercise of agency discretion. The term “immediately available” need not be limited by a current priority date according to the visa bulletin. Instead, just like the State Department for the past 25 years has started processing an application for an immigrant visa prior to the priority date becoming current, the USCIS too could create a “provisional filing date” many years in advance of the priority date becoming current that would allow the adjustment application to be submitted but not approved. This would result in the applicant obtaining all of the benefits of such a filing, such as interim work and travel benefits along with the ability to exercise occupational mobility under INA§ 204(j).

[mesan123]

If that is correct....it is good for most of us... :)


Interesting article from Oh Law Firm..

01/07/2012: Need for Administrative Fix of Employment-Based Immigration - Opportunity for Filing I-485 Applications Upon Approval of I-140 Petition During the Visa Number Regression

Congress has been more or less dysfunctional in grid locks when it comes to immigration legislations to fix ailing immigration systems. As we reported yesterday, USCIS announced its intent to fix administratively part of family-based immigration problems, which should have been fixed by comprehensive immigration reform legislation, to help the immediate relatives of U. S. Citizens who had to endure forced separation for unnecessarily prolonged period of time because of the procedural hurdles. The stateside processing of waivers of inadmissibility would not change the current law in the substantive areas but at least would change it in the procedures such that the separated family members can be reunited in a short period of time. We salute the Obama Administration for this initiative and strongly support the action.
We also encourage the Obama Administration to give equal attention to fix the ailing employment-based immigration system. During the Bush Administration, they considered the administrative fix plan in 26 areas in immigration and some of them have been implemented, including extension of OPT to 29 months for the STEM specialty graduates, expansion of TN nonimmigrant visas for Canadians from one-year to three years, etc. We understand that the Obama Administration had a plan to launch administrative fixes in several areas which have been blocked in political tangle. Now, they take a firm stand on fixing problems in family-based immigration areas. We submit that it is about time for them to stand up and launch administrative fix plans im employment-based sector as well to attract and retain needed foreign workers to strengthen the nation's competitiveness in the global economy. One of the fixes the country need which can be achieved without increasing the employment-based immigrant annual quota is known to be to expand the requirement for eligibility of EB-485 applications from the current rules requiring visa number availability to just approval of I-140 petition. By allowing I-485 filing to those whose need has been tested in the country's labor market through labor certification process and I-140 petition has been approved, these needed foreign workers would be able to continue a normal life contributing to the country's competitiveness as part of important work forces for the nation before and after approval of their I-485 applications. Such administrative fix will help the American businesses and research institutions tremendously.
Reportedly, this idea was presented in the form of an article entitled "Tyranny of Priority Dates," written by attorneys Gary Endelman and Cyrus D. Mehta, which was reportedly sent to USCIS Director Mayorkas. It states that Mr. Mayorkas expressed interest in the ideas contained in Tyranny of Priority Dates at a stakeholder’s meeting between him and some of the members of the Alliance of Business Immigration Lawyers (ABIL), which included Cyrus D. Mehta, on March 3, 2010, in Washington, D.C. It is about time for Mr. Mayorkas to relook at this concept and to assess feasibility of such administrative fix. The suggestion is summarized as follows: Even if INA § 245(a)(3) states that an adjustment of status application can only be filed if a visa number is immediately available, the USCIS has the flexibility to interpret this provision broadly since Congress did not define when a case is “filed,” leaving it to the informed exercise of agency discretion. The term “immediately available” need not be limited by a current priority date according to the visa bulletin. Instead, just like the State Department for the past 25 years has started processing an application for an immigrant visa prior to the priority date becoming current, the USCIS too could create a “provisional filing date” many years in advance of the priority date becoming current that would allow the adjustment application to be submitted but not approved. This would result in the applicant obtaining all of the benefits of such a filing, such as interim work and travel benefits along with the ability to exercise occupational mobility under INA§ 204(j).

[essenel]

If that is correct....it is good for most of us... :)

"As we reported yesterday, USCIS announced its intent to fix administratively part of family-based immigration problems, which should have been fixed by comprehensive immigration reform legislation, to help the immediate relatives of U. S. Citizens who had to endure forced separation for unnecessarily prolonged period of time because of the procedural hurdles."

USCIS has not announced any administrative fixes in the employment-based system....

[immitime]

Just repeating what I have written earlier.
Previously there was same kind of rule making agenda for filing of I-485 (adjustment of status not exactly but pre-registration when the PD is not current.) for any approved I-140. But this was way back in 2008-2009, our Great Uncle grassley and his companion tails in USCIS leaked the USCIS memo and made it a big issue, Uncle wrote a letter along with 3 other senators to Mr.Mayorkas to stop this. it seems USCIS agreed to it, and it was abandoned.

Uncle is a great hinderance to all the good thinking lawful immigrants.. Uncle should be educated by lobbying for his election campaign ( tons of money, texas farmhouse, private chopper, private planes to use) or in the Senate/Congress this fillibuster rule should be eliminated by amendment. otherhwise no immigration bill or adminfix will be passed on time with out cloture motion as per the political situation today. (eventhough just 6 months before last senate election, Uncle decided not to contest, but for unknown reasons he contested again and won from Iowa.)

Moral of the story: - More than Truth and Justice, Money (so called lobbying and political power prevails.

[whiskeylover]

Uncle? Grandpa is more like it.

[immitime]

Uncle? Grandpa is more like it.

You are funny! :-) by his age yes he is as old as Grandpa! (Grassmamaji)
Grandpas are loving and caring always, but Uncles*^%#@ we never know.. what actually in their minds.(but not all Uncles)
He is like Mamashri (sakuni) in Mahabharath.

[mesan123]

may be that is right :)


You are funny! :-) by his age yes he is as old as Grandpa! (Grassmamaji)
Grandpas are loving and caring always, but Uncles*^%#@ we never know.. what actually in their minds.(but not all Uncles)
He is like Mamashri (sakuni) in Mahabharath.

[codesmith]

I received interesting reply to HR 3012..
This reply talks about bill 1857.

....................
As you may know, S. 1857 would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to eliminate the per-country numerical limitation for employment-based immigrants as well as increase the per-country numerical limitation for family-sponsored immigrants. Eliminating the per-country limit for employment-based green cards will reduce the massive backlogs and inherent unfairness faced by larger countries. The foundation of this nation was forged upon the backs of hard working immigrants from countries spanning the globe and this tradition must be respected even during dire economic times.

S. 1857 was introduced on November 10, 2011, and referred to Committee on the Judiciary. It has been requested that the bill be passed by a unanimous consent agreement with an amendment from Senator Grassley. This request will likely be completed when the Senate returns to session later this month. Please be assured that I will keep your concerns in mind.

......................

[jackbrown_890]

I received interesting reply to HR 3012..
This reply talks about bill 1857.

....................
As you may know, S. 1857 would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to eliminate the per-country numerical limitation for employment-based immigrants as well as increase the per-country numerical limitation for family-sponsored immigrants. Eliminating the per-country limit for employment-based green cards will reduce the massive backlogs and inherent unfairness faced by larger countries. The foundation of this nation was forged upon the backs of hard working immigrants from countries spanning the globe and this tradition must be respected even during dire economic times.

S. 1857 was introduced on November 10, 2011, and referred to Committee on the Judiciary. It has been requested that the bill be passed by a unanimous consent agreement with an amendment from Senator Grassley. This request will likely be completed when the Senate returns to session later this month. Please be assured that I will keep your concerns in mind.

......................

thanks for posting it here
which senator?

[leo07]

Do we know whatever happened to HR 3012. is it dead??

[codesmith]

thanks for posting it here
which senator?

Mr. John Mccain

[jackbrown_890]

Mr. John Mccain

McCain - that is interesting.
Let s see what happens on 23rd. I am hoping Reid will bring it up on 1st day

[vishnu]

I think by law, they have to have a 2nd reading on the 1st day. That is, 1/23. After that, they have to set a date for the 3rd reading (which is typically the vote).

[lalaji]

From Oh Law Firm:

01/10/2012: Continuing Struggle and Frustration for Irish E-3 Bill Lobby

The report indicates that unless this bill is taken care of early on, the Congress's attetion will most likely be directed to other anticipated forthcoming immigration bills including some comprehensive-level immigration relief bills, probably including DREAM, and extension of legislations which expire at the end of September 2012 such as Conrad 30 for foreign medical doctors's J visa foreign residency requirement waiver programs at the state levels, EB-5 Regional Center Pilot program for investment immigration program, and EB-4 non-minister religious worker special immigration and R nonimmigrant visa programs. These threee programs have gone through legislative struggles every three years as the Congress has extended these laws only for three years at a time. On top of these, agriculture community that has been facing migrant farm worker shortage problems is likely to pump up their lobbying efforts to push their bills into one of highest priority immigration legislative bills. Current Irish community frustration, according to the report, stems from failure of other Senators to join the Irish E-3 visa bills as co-sponsors of the bills despite their push.

Article:

Irish immigration advocates have called on Senator Scott Brown (R-Massachusetts) to step up to the plate and secure more co-sponsors for a recent piece of Irish-specific immigration legislation the senator introduced before Christmas.

Initially co-sponsored by Senator Mark Kirk (R-Illinois), the standalone Irish Immigration Reform and Encouragement (IRE) Act aims to add the Irish citizens to the E-3 visa program currently in place with Australia, and would provide the Irish with 10,500 non-immigrant employment permits, renewable every two years.

It was introduced shortly after Senator Chuck Schumer (D-New York) introduced a bill - co-sponsored by Senator Pat Leahy (D-Vermont) and Senator Richard Durbin (D-Illinois) - which contains amendments to the Bipartisan bill HR3012 (the Fairness for High-Skilled Immigrants Act).

Schumer’s bill would allow for certain qualifying undocumented Irish to go home and return legally via temporary non-immigrant work visas, but not green cards. Like Brown’s proposal, the amendments are modeled on the E-3 visa, but with a lowering of the required skill levels.

Crucially, Senator Brown’s bill does not contain such concessions to the undocumented. However it is felt the Republican’s bill, for this very reason, has a better chance of gaining bi-partisan support. Now, though, immigration activists have grown uneasy, as Senator Brown has failed to thus-far bring on board any more co-sponsors.

“In our meetings with Republican offices, general support for the Irish E-3 concept is evident but it is not translating into co-sponsorship,” Billy Lawless, chair of the Chicago Celts for Immigration Reform, told The Irish Emigrant.

“No one we have met with, to date, has expressed any real opposition to the Brown bill (S.2005). Any opposition has been focused on the waiver provisions of the Schumer bill (S.1983), as Republicans want their own bill, and cite national security issues when waivers are mentioned.”

The meetings Lawless refers to have been held on Capitol Hill over the past few weeks between the Irish Embassy, representatives of the various Irish immigration groups, and the staffers of numerous senators, in the hope of gaining support across the political divide for both proposals.

Now, however, it is felt there is a clear need to sharpen efforts. With more visits to senatorial offices planned for the coming days, the call has come for the Irish community to unite and outline precisely how the bills would benefit both countries.

Pressing questions include how any E-3 visa will affect the overall cap on visas granted by the government each year; does the Obama administration support the E-3; and will there be reciprocity from Ireland? With this in mind, it is understood that a statement of support is being worked on with the White House Office of Public Engagement.

“In order to achieve co-sponsorship, it is important we demonstrate that we have our act together by showing offices that there is support for the E-3 here in the US and in Ireland from groups and businesses,” Lawless said.

“Generating co-sponsors for S.2005 will require active support from the business community and other Irish groups; continued advocacy on our part on the Hill; and most importantly Senator Brown's active solicitation of potential co-sponsors.”

With crucial decisions to be made on broader immigration policies in the coming months, the Galwayman said it’s vital that momentum gained to date is not lost just as the real decisions are being made.

“There is growing attention on the Hill towards the reauthorization of several visa programs which expire in September, including the Regional Center EB-5 visa program; the Religious Worker visa (R visa); and the Rural-Serving Doctors visa (Conrad 30-J visa). These programs were last extended for three years in 2009,” Lawless said.

“The challenge for us is to make sure the Irish E-3 visa is part of the mix on any new immigration legislation, by building broad support and maintaining constant engagement on both sides of the aisle in the Capitol.”

[codesmith]

McCain - that is interesting.
Let s see what happens on 23rd. I am hoping Reid will bring it up on 1st day

Jack,
Yes, it's interesting; I mean there's a talk and something is definitely cooking to tackle the country wise limit. Now it would be interesting to see how and the time-frame. I've not read 1857.. but if this bill solves the problem then go for it. :)

[kd2008]

Folks, Contact anyone you know in Iowa now and impress them the urgency to act. It does not matter if they themselves are backlogged or not or have greencard etc. As long as they will listen to you and let people know about HR 3012, contact Grassley's office and demand support for HR 3012, we should pursue them.

This is crunch time!!!

[jackbrown_890]

Jack,
Yes, it's interesting; I mean there's a talk and something is definitely cooking to tackle the country wise limit. Now it would be interesting to see how and the time-frame. I've not read 1857.. but if this bill solves the problem then go for it. :)

1857 is same as 3012 introduced by Mike Lee in Senate.
The issue in McCain's reply to you was Amendment by Grassley. I think if/when 3012/1857 goes to senate floor there will be few more amendments by others too. Hopefully we will find out in 2-3 weeks

[immitime]

1857 is same as 3012 introduced by Mike Lee in Senate.
The issue in McCain's reply to you was Amendment by Grassley. I think if/when 3012/1857 goes to senate floor there will be few more amendments by others too. Hopefully we will find out in 2-3 weeks

S.1857 & H.R,3012 even though the content is same, the situation of both the bills are totally different, S.1857' status is as below.

Latest Major Action: 11/10/2011 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary

If you search for H.R.3012 the status is as below.
Latest Major Action: 12/17/2011 Read the first time. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under Read the First Time.

You can search both the bills on this link H.R.3012 & S 1857 (select the option Bill text)

http://thomas.loc.gov/home/LegislativeData.php

As a Senator he replied for the Senate bill condition with the same subject matter. Of course since S.1857 is with the Judiciary committee, Grassmama might have objected to amend that bill.

In the case of H.R.3012, eventhough Grassmama tried to amend it as we all know, It did not work and 3012 is read once and placed in the Senate Calender for second reading.(under rule 14)

We cannot assume that the reply from a Senator for a Senate bill is the same for a Overwhelmingly passed Congress bill. As a Senator he might be referring the Sente bill.
I am optimistic! and H.R.3012 will be passed at its present form, whatever political manouvering happens in between. Everychance of H.R.3012 passing Unanimously within this month.

[pakkpk]

We need coordinated push by communities (Indians and Chinese) to write to Senators. So when it convene on January 23rd and vote comes up they listen to us.
Please vote YES to HR 3012 by clicking here... http://www.petition2congress.com/

[sntsnt]

Hi,

Is there any way by which we can request senators to include an amendment in hr 3012 for allowing H4 visa holders to work like L2 holders.

Thanks,
snt

[cricfan]

sntsnt,

I think adding amendments to hr3012 at this time will result in an unnecessary delay since it has already passed the house. If amendments are added it needs to go back to the house for vote.

Senior Members , Please correct me if I am wrong here.....

[sugada]

Folks, Contact anyone you know in Iowa now and impress them the urgency to act. It does not matter if they themselves are backlogged or not or have greencard etc. As long as they will listen to you and let people know about HR 3012, contact Grassley's office and demand support for HR 3012, we should pursue them.

This is crunch time!!!

How about all of us post this HR 3012 to Mitt Romney, he seems to be leading among Republicans. May be Rick and others who are in the Race as well, might catch up with some one.

[codesmith]

How about all of us post this HR 3012 to Mitt Romney, he seems to be leading among Republicans. May be Rick and others who are in the Race as well, might catch up with some one.

Wondering how would it help ? Any of the contestants wouldn't be paying attention to such issues and it won't result into any action/support of party or individual congressman in senate.
All of the contestants are concerned about winning and staying out of any controversy and supporting this bill wont happen is such a charged atmosphere IMHO.

[jackbrown_890]

sntsnt,

I think adding amendments to hr3012 at this time will result in an unnecessary delay since it has already passed the house. If amendments are added it needs to go back to the house for vote.

Senior Members , Please correct me if I am wrong here.....

you are right....for now it is better if it passes in senate without any amendments so it can directly go to president for his signature without going back to house..

[jackbrown_890]

How about all of us post this HR 3012 to Mitt Romney, he seems to be leading among Republicans. May be Rick and others who are in the Race as well, might catch up with some one.

good idea..but i doubt,,they will do anything about it,,let me rephrase it,,"they can't do much right now" they are just presidential CANDIDATES, it is now in hands of senate members,,,main players now r Reid, Schumer, Grassley, Mike Lee etc..and even Chaffeze can help,,,

[LUVSPIDER]

Dispute over proposed green card law pits brightest immigrants against each other:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/dispute-over-proposed-green-card-law-pits-brightest-immigrants-against-each-other/2012/01/03/gIQANdSKpP_story.html?hpid=z5

[immitime]

There can be 1000s of disputes online, any one can write anything but the bill is not affected by this. Senators are the ultimate decision makers on this bill as stand alone bill with no amendments. and there is overwhelming support for this bill(without amendment, that is the reason everyone is pinching on it) Divide and rule policy, but this time H.R.3012 is Law.. pretty soon.

[letheQ]

There can be 1000s of disputes online, any one can write anything but the bill is not affected by this. Senators are the ultimate decision makers on this bill as stand alone bill with no amendments. and there is overwhelming support for this bill(without amendment, that is the reason everyone is pinching on it) Divide and rule policy, but this time H.R.3012 is Law.. pretty soon.

Is this your Opinion? (or) heard somewhere

[immitime]

Is this your Opinion? (or) heard somewhere

This is not my own opinion! the proof is in the pudding ;) the reason every senator want a bill with H.R.3012 itself is the proof, and they are not increasing any visa number, just taking out country cap! and that is enough for a bipartisan bill to pass in an election year, and of course the Tech lobby is so strong

[idiotic]

Guys/Girls,

A small exercise here will be very useful. I know many of us have written to senators and got the response by now. So, can we reply with senator name and his stand (yes/no/ambiguous response) on this. As many of us are spread through out USA, it would be a good exercise to see the collective results well before the actual voting.

My 2 cents..

[lalaji]

Oh Law Firm update:

01/11/2012: Potential Implication of Appointment of Comprehensive Immigration Reform Advocate Cecilia Muñoz to the White House Top Position of Director of the Domestic Policy Council.

Muñoz's appointment to the White House's top domestic policy position is considered a signal to Hispanic voters that Obama has not given up on immigration reform, despite the lack of progress in his first term, according to a report. Even though the immigrant community may not see immediate impact of this appointment on immigration legislation, without doubt, this will affect, in one way or another, the White House's position on pending and future immigration reform policy and direction for immigration legislation in the Congress. Recent report of the White House internal struggle on CIR between the First Lady, who is an advocate of CIR, and the former White House Chief of Staff and current Mayor of Chicago, who had been known to have a different position, may also have some level of connection to the Obama's position on immigration in coming months, regardless of its implication on the November election strategy. It may be interesting to watch whether it will impact one way or another the Democrat's position in the Senate on the pending H.R. 3012. Traditionally the comprehensive immigration reform advocates have been opposing piecemeal immigration reform, particularly employment-based immigration reform, from their position that such piece-meal immigration reform legislation will weaken the chances for comprehensive immigration reform legislation. In order to accomodate Democrat's such dynamic position, Rep. Chaffetz accomodated increase in family-based immigrant visa per country limit and three-year phase-in arrangement for elimination of the employment-based per country limitation in the bill and was able to obtain support from the two strongest Democrat CIR advocate members of the House, Rep. Luis Gutierez and Rep. Zoe Lofgren as co-sponsors of the bill. Please stay tuned to this website for the development. Remember that this is a national election year. Most of the coming legislative bills will have some implication for the Presidential election strategies of each party.

[manubhai]

Guys/Girls,

A small exercise here will be very useful. I know many of us have written to senators and got the response by now. So, can we reply with senator name and his stand (yes/no/ambiguous response) on this. As many of us are spread through out USA, it would be a good exercise to see the collective results well before the actual voting.


idiotic,
We have usually refrained from doing so in the past. The reasoning behind not putting a senator's name in an open forum is that we end up opening the senator up for attack or calls/meetings from the other side. Most of the times, people don't put up the senator's name, and instead pm the forum member who "really" wants to know.

I am not opposing your idea. I just feel - based on previous decisions taken on this and other boards - that we shouldn't identify the name. In practice, this will mean that we will not be able to create a comprehensive "tally" of senator names and votes, as you have suggested. Not having that tally before the vote may not be such a big detriment. At the end of the day, what matters to us is that the senators who are supporting the cause are not bombarded from the other side.

Of course, this is just my humble opinion. Other than that, I'd suggest that folks do what you have done - Call, or meet, the senator and do the best to convince them to say yes.

I'd also request that you edit your post and remove the senator's name and state.

Thanks for the effort!

[idiotic]

We have usually refrained from doing so in the past. The reasoning behind not putting a senator's name in an open forum is that we end up opening the senator up for attack or calls/meetings from the other side. Most of the times, people don't put up the senator's name, and instead pm the forum member who "really" wants to know.

I am not opposing your idea. I just feel - based on previous decisions taken on this and other boards - that we shouldn't identify the name. In practice, this will mean that we will not be able to create a comprehensive "tally" of senator names and votes, as you have suggested. Not having that tally before the vote may not be such a big detriment. At the end of the day, what matters to us is that the senators who are supporting the cause are not bombarded from the other side.

Of course, this is just my humble opinion. Other than that, I'd suggest that folks do what you have done - Call, or meet, the senator and do the best to convince them to say yes.

I'd also request that you edit your post and remove the senator's name and state.

Thanks for the effort!

Agree with your intention but there is a workaround.. Let us private message to one representative and let him collect the info and post combined tally.. will that work?

[kd2008]

Guys/Girls,

A small exercise here will be very useful. I know many of us have written to senators and got the response by now. So, can we reply with senator name and his stand (yes/no/ambiguous response) on this. As many of us are spread through out USA, it would be a good exercise to see the collective results well before the actual voting.

My 2 cents..



Idiotic (no pun intended, LOL), please delete your post. The communication from the Senator was intended for you. If the Senator wanted to tell the whole world, he/she would have held a press conference and let everyone know. Please be considerate and do not undo the hard work done by everyone else.

[idiotic]

Idiotic (no pun intended, LOL), please delete your post. The communication from the Senator was intended for you. If the Senator wanted to tell the whole world, he/she would have held a press conference and let everyone know. Please be considerate and do not undo the hard work done by everyone else.

I already edited my post to remove the senator name.. the only place it shows the senator name now is in your post (Quoted text).. Please edit it too.. thanks

[manubhai]

Idiotic (no pun intended, LOL), please delete your post. The communication from the Senator was intended for you. If the Senator wanted to tell the whole world, he/she would have held a press conference and let everyone know. Please be considerate and do not undo the hard work done by everyone else.

kd2008,
Dont think idiotic's intention was to "undo the hard work done by everyone else". He was just trying to come up with a creative idea and I'd rather thank him for the initiative.

Also, if a senator sends out a note or a mail to someone, unless distinctly specified in the communication, the senator assumes that that communication WILL be made public - with or without a press conference.

That said, the one thing we all seem to agree on is that "WE" don't want to leak out names because it hurts our cause. It will be great if all those who oppose HR3012 continue calling Mr. Grassley, and ONLY Mr. Grassley, while we focus on calling everyone else.

That said, I agree with your intention and we all are trying to follow the same path - call and meet the Senators, convince them, and get this bill passed.

Thanks!

[immitime]

Oh Law Firm update:

01/11/2012: Potential Implication of Appointment of Comprehensive Immigration Reform Advocate Cecilia Muñoz to the White House Top Position of Director of the Domestic Policy Council.

Muñoz's appointment to the White House's top domestic policy position is considered a signal to Hispanic voters that Obama has not given up on immigration reform, despite the lack of progress in his first term, according to a report. Even though the immigrant community may not see immediate impact of this appointment on immigration legislation, without doubt, this will affect, in one way or another, the White House's position on pending and future immigration reform policy and direction for immigration legislation in the Congress. Recent report of the White House internal struggle on CIR between the First Lady, who is an advocate of CIR, and the former White House Chief of Staff and current Mayor of Chicago, who had been known to have a different position, may also have some level of connection to the Obama's position on immigration in coming months, regardless of its implication on the November election strategy. It may be interesting to watch whether it will impact one way or another the Democrat's position in the Senate on the pending H.R. 3012. Traditionally the comprehensive immigration reform advocates have been opposing piecemeal immigration reform, particularly employment-based immigration reform, from their position that such piece-meal immigration reform legislation will weaken the chances for comprehensive immigration reform legislation. In order to accomodate Democrat's such dynamic position, Rep. Chaffetz accomodated increase in family-based immigrant visa per country limit and three-year phase-in arrangement for elimination of the employment-based per country limitation in the bill and was able to obtain support from the two strongest Democrat CIR advocate members of the House, Rep. Luis Gutierez and Rep. Zoe Lofgren as co-sponsors of the bill. Please stay tuned to this website for the development. Remember that this is a national election year. Most of the coming legislative bills will have some implication for the Presidential election strategies of each party.

Mathew OH of oh law firm nowadays connects everything to H.R.3012, that is an attorneys, inherent fear to losing business on EAD renewal and H1B extensions! of course site traffic too. I do not understand how an appointment will make an impact on Senators! He is comparing apples with oranges! :) ( I won't be surprised if he says there is not much snowing this winter because of H.R.3012 is in the Senate calendar!)

[immitime]

kd2008,
Dont think idiotic's intention was to "undo the hard work done by everyone else". He was just trying to come up with a creative idea and I'd rather thank him for the initiative.

Also, if a senator sends out a note or a mail to someone, unless distinctly specified in the communication, the senator assumes that that communication WILL be made public - with or without a press conference.

That said, the one thing we all seem to agree on is that "WE" don't want to leak out names because it hurts our cause. It will be great if all those who oppose HR3012 continue calling Mr. Grassley, and ONLY Mr. Grassley, while we focus on calling everyone else.

That said, I agree with your intention and we all are trying to follow the same path - call and meet the Senators, convince them, and get this bill passed.

Thanks!

Adding to this no Senator replies clearly for the concern of a bill, they just have the standard reply like "When the bill comes for consideration, I Will keep your opinion/views in mind" By this statement of the Senators reply, it is very difficult to assume what is in their minds, and lot of things changes between cup and the lip.and of course that is Politics!

[idiotic]

kd2008,
Dont think idiotic's intention was to "undo the hard work done by everyone else". He was just trying to come up with a creative idea and I'd rather thank him for the initiative.

Also, if a senator sends out a note or a mail to someone, unless distinctly specified in the communication, the senator assumes that that communication WILL be made public - with or without a press conference.

That said, the one thing we all seem to agree on is that "WE" don't want to leak out names because it hurts our cause. It will be great if all those who oppose HR3012 continue calling Mr. Grassley, and ONLY Mr. Grassley, while we focus on calling everyone else.

That said, I agree with your intention and we all are trying to follow the same path - call and meet the Senators, convince them, and get this bill passed.

Thanks!

If someone replied yes / no to our letters, I do not think we can change their positions very easily by calling or doing whatever (Eg. Our "holding" senator). It will be very useful if we can meet up with the people who are inbetween. For example in my state, there is one senator who already replied yes but the other one is giving ambiguous response. I already called their office and also planning to meetup with him if possible.

[lalaji]

Can we see any impact on HR3012 based on below article information?
01/11/2012: Potential Implication of Appointment of Comprehensive Immigration Reform Advocate Cecilia Muñoz to the White House Top Position of Director of the Domestic Policy Council.

Muñoz's appointment to the White House's top domestic policy position is considered a signal to Hispanic voters that Obama has not given up on immigration reform, despite the lack of progress in his first term, according to a report. Even though the immigrant community may not see immediate impact of this appointment on immigration legislation, without doubt, this will affect, in one way or another, the White House's position on pending and future immigration reform policy and direction for immigration legislation in the Congress. Recent report of the White House internal struggle on CIR between the First Lady, who is an advocate of CIR, and the former White House Chief of Staff and current Mayor of Chicago, who had been known to have a different position, may also have some level of connection to the Obama's position on immigration in coming months, regardless of its implication on the November election strategy. It may be interesting to watch whether it will impact one way or another the Democrat's position in the Senate on the pending H.R. 3012. Traditionally the comprehensive immigration reform advocates have been opposing piecemeal immigration reform, particularly employment-based immigration reform, from their position that such piece-meal immigration reform legislation will weaken the chances for comprehensive immigration reform legislation. In order to accomodate Democrat's such dynamic position, Rep. Chaffetz accomodated increase in family-based immigrant visa per country limit and three-year phase-in arrangement for elimination of the employment-based per country limitation in the bill and was able to obtain support from the two strongest Democrat CIR advocate members of the House, Rep. Luis Gutierez and Rep. Zoe Lofgren as co-sponsors of the bill. Please stay tuned to this website for the development. Remember that this is a national election year. Most of the coming legislative bills will have some implication for the Presidential election strategies of each party.

[immitime]

Can we see any impact on HR3012 based on below article information?
01/11/2012: Potential Implication of Appointment of Comprehensive Immigration Reform Advocate Cecilia Muñoz to the White House Top Position of Director of the Domestic Policy Council.

Muñoz's appointment to the White House's top domestic policy position is considered a signal to Hispanic voters that Obama has not given up on immigration reform, despite the lack of progress in his first term, according to a report. Even though the immigrant community may not see immediate impact of this appointment on immigration legislation, without doubt, this will affect, in one way or another, the White House's position on pending and future immigration reform policy and direction for immigration legislation in the Congress. Recent report of the White House internal struggle on CIR between the First Lady, who is an advocate of CIR, and the former White House Chief of Staff and current Mayor of Chicago, who had been known to have a different position, may also have some level of connection to the Obama's position on immigration in coming months, regardless of its implication on the November election strategy. It may be interesting to watch whether it will impact one way or another the Democrat's position in the Senate on the pending H.R. 3012. Traditionally the comprehensive immigration reform advocates have been opposing piecemeal immigration reform, particularly employment-based immigration reform, from their position that such piece-meal immigration reform legislation will weaken the chances for comprehensive immigration reform legislation. In order to accomodate Democrat's such dynamic position, Rep. Chaffetz accomodated increase in family-based immigrant visa per country limit and three-year phase-in arrangement for elimination of the employment-based per country limitation in the bill and was able to obtain support from the two strongest Democrat CIR advocate members of the House, Rep. Luis Gutierez and Rep. Zoe Lofgren as co-sponsors of the bill. Please stay tuned to this website for the development. Remember that this is a national election year. Most of the coming legislative bills will have some implication for the Presidential election strategies of each party.

lalaji,

Please check my above post regarding this. NO impact whatsoever, Fear mongering and site traffic by attorneys.. that is the only thing happening, until Senate recess is over come Jan 23rd:)

[lalaji]

Thanks. One interesting think i noticed is her husband is an indian 'Amit Pandya' :ohuman rights lawyer.

[Sunnyznj]

Lot of negative information is being spread on websites with references to H.R. 3012. Can we all take some time out and post in support of this bill? Esp the WaPo bill...Anti H.R. 3012 people are posting comments as citizens...

http://www.livemint.com/2012/01/10234222/US-Bill-to-hasten-green-cards.html

http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/dispute-over-proposed-green-card-law-pits-brightest-immigrants-against-each-other/2012/01/03/gIQANdSKpP_story.html?hpid=z5

[pakkpk]

I tried to post pro HR 3012 opinion on both articles but moderator never posted. Everybody should post positive comments on the articles.

[lalaji]

Update from Oh Law firm:

01/12/2012: Update Report of Irish Lobby for Schumer S. 1983

Irish news media reports today its lobbying activities to solicit support of S. 1983 which includes H.R. 3012 version and Irish E-3 nonimmigrant visas for legal and illegal Irish. They are and will continuously drum up their lobby campaigns during next few weeks to find seven (7) Republican Senators to support this bill. Reportedly, Schumer stated that he had 53 votes in the Democratic caucus in the Senate who had agreed to vote for the bill. This is somewhat promising news for H.R. 3012 supporters. As we reported earlier, the supporters of H.R. 3012 and S. 1983 should increase their efforts to get one of these bills passed in the Senate as soon as the Senate return late this month. Otherwise, the chances for success will turn slimmer and slimmer because of changing political landscape involving the national election strategies. Please stay tuned.

[iamdeb]

Lot of negative information is being spread on websites with references to H.R. 3012. Can we all take some time out and post in support of this bill? Esp the WaPo bill...Anti H.R. 3012 people are posting comments as citizens...

http://www.livemint.com/2012/01/10234222/US-Bill-to-hasten-green-cards.html

http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/dispute-over-proposed-green-card-law-pits-brightest-immigrants-against-each-other/2012/01/03/gIQANdSKpP_story.html?hpid=z5

Very true. The ROWers are hell bent on creating roadblocks for this bill. They are leaving no stones unturned in their effort to tarnish HR 3012.They are being dishonest,unscrupulous and slanderous in all their posts. We need to mitigate their effect before Senate returns to session.

[jackbrown_890]

Very true. The ROWers are hell bent on creating roadblocks for this bill. They are leaving no stones unturned in their effort to tarnish HR 3012.They are being dishonest,unscrupulous and slanderous in all their posts. We need to mitigate their effect before Senate returns to session.

i would say,,don't hesitate to post your opinions/comments on those websites under d articles..

[Sunnyznj]

i would say,,don't hesitate to post your opinions/comments on those websites under d articles..

It boils my blood to see some of the comments in there.. i have started replying but we need more supporters to comment on these articles and to present facts instead of the baseless BS that ROW is spewing.

[immitime]

It boils my blood to see some of the comments in there.. i have started replying but we need more supporters to comment on these articles and to present facts instead of the baseless BS that ROW is spewing.

I understand your frustation brother, do not worry too much they are only some hand full of people who pays money to wapo and livemint to delete comment of pro H.R.3012 just to make our side depressed, do not fall for that. We will know what is the reality when the Senate comes back on Jan 23rd.

Of course we can reply, but they delete the pro posts. If you remember a few weeks back there was a poll, in washingtonpost site to oppose and support the same bill. but they showed it as more opposition by hook or crook so do not fall for that.

[Sunnyznj]

I understand your frustation brother, do not worry too much they are only some hand full of people who pays money to wapo and livemint to delete comment of pro H.R.3012 just to make our side depressed, do not fall for that. We will know what is the reality when the Senate comes back on Jan 23rd.

Of course we can reply, but they delete the pro posts. If you remember a few weeks back there was a poll, in washingtonpost site to oppose and support the same bill. but they showed it as more opposition by hook or crook so do not fall for that.

I agree and hence i am not even bothering to argue with folks on there..

[gcq]

Whenever we post on public sites, make sure our arguments are civil and to the point. Also please make sure we don't insult american citizens.

[lalaji]

http://irishecho.com/?p=69124

[qesehmk]

I think instead of arguing with opponents of HR3012, a strong case should be made for HR 3012 at every opportunity.

No point in fighting with anybody over HR 3012.

[manubhai]

Adding to Q's point above: After a point, responding to comments becomes a circular and usually a self-fulfilling cycle. They wont have to "respond" if you don't. They will take out what they have by writing one or two comments and they'll stop. If they feel the need to write 5 comments, you've just doubled it to 10.

I am not asking you to stop. I am requesting that you please spend your valuable time commenting only if you have already spent your valuable time in calling and meeting the senators.

Responding to comments won't get HR3012 to pass.

A senator's vote will get HR3012 to pass.

[jackbrown_890]

Emailed Senator again
Hoping to hear back from his office before 23rd..

[lalaji]

Update from Oh Law Firm:

01/13/2012: Target Republican Senators Picked by Irish Lobbysts for Support of S. 1983 Schumer Bill

We reported earlier that supporters of S. 1983 that includes H.R. 3012 and Irish E-3 nonimmigrant visa needed at least seven (7) Republican Senators to break the potential filibuster by Sen. Chuck Grassley. Irish media is actively soliciting Irish community to contact the following Senators:
Kentucky: Senator Mitch McConnell: 202-224-2541
Maine: Senator Susan Collins: 202-224-2523
Maine: Senator Olympia Snowe: 202-224-5344
Alaska: Senator Murkowski: 202-224-666
Indiana: Senator Lugar: 202-224-4814
Arizona: Senator John McCain: 202-224-2235
South Carolina: Senator Lindsey Graham: 202-224- 5972
Ohio: Senator Rob Portman: 202-224-3353
Florida: Senator Marco Rubio: 202-224-3041
Massachusetts: Senator Scott Brown: 202-224-4543
Pennsylvania: Senator Pat Toomey: 202-224-4254
Illinois: Senator Mark Kirk: 202-224-2854
New Hampshire: Senator Kelly Ayotte: 202-224-3324
Iowa: Senator Chuck Grassley: 202-224-3744
Texas: Senator John Cornyn: 202-224-2934
This reporter understands that the H.R. 3012 lobbysts and supporters, including Indians, have been working hard to get seven Republican Senators. We are not sure whether they are targetting at the same Republican Senators, but time is running out and both communities must work hard to get their bill sailed through the Senate floor successfully as soon as the Senate returns to the session. January 23, 2012 meeting will be pro forma session and there will be no votes and the supporters may want to have the bills taken care of at least by the first week of February 2012.

[imdeng]

If there is an E3 visa for Australia and now perhaps an E3 visa for Ireland, why not one for India? Could this be point of emphasis for future advocacy? I believe Australia got the E3 visa in exchange of supporting the first Gulf war. Ireland is pushing for E3 because of historic linkages between US and Ireland. May be next time India is in a good bargaining positions (some treaty/military support/containing China/etc) - India should push for E3 visa as well.

E3 for Australians is really a waste right now. They hardly use a third of the 10K annual limit. If anything, E3 should be opened for other nationalities once demand from original target countries have been met.

Also - E3 is pretty awesome visa - it can be renewed as many times as you wish, spouses can work without limitations and dependents are NOT counted in the quota. The renewal process is really fast too.

[skpanda]

Also - E3 is pretty awesome visa - it can be renewed as many times as you wish, spouses can work without limitations and dependents are NOT counted in the quota. The renewal process is really fast too.

Only drawack is there is no path to Greencard/Citizenship with an E3 visa.

[jackbrown_890]

Senate Floor UPDATE:
As per Senate Floor Log:
The Senate will next convene for business on Monday, January 23, 2012 at 2:00 PM. There will be in a period of Morning Business for two hours. At 4:00 PM, the Senate will proceed to an Executive Session to consider the nomination of Cal. #438 (John Gerrard to United States District Judge for the District of Nebraska). There will 90 minutes of debate on the nomination followed by a vote on confirmation at 5:30 PM. On Tuesday, January 24, 2012 at 2:15 PM, the Senate will have a cloture vote on the Motion to Proceed to S. 968 ( Preventing Real Online Threats to Economic Creativity and Theft of Intellectual Property Act of 2011).

[lalaji]

It looks like HR3012 will not be taken soon...Please confirm.

[idiotic]

It looks like HR3012 will not be taken soon...Please confirm.

It will be read for second time and placed on calender for sure on Jan 23, 2012. When it comes up for voting is a different story and no one knows at this point. Hope it will be sometime soon.

[cricfan]

Are they going to decide the voting date on Jan 23,2012

[lalaji]

Any updates guys.. 5 more days to go...

[lalaji]

HR3012 bill is not in the below link..Earlier it was there...

http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CCAL-112scal-2012-01-17/pdf/CCAL-112scal-2012-01-17.pdf

[lalaji]

Dec 17th 2011 bills missing...

[immitime]

Bill is very much there.
H.R. 3012 (Fairness for High-Skilled Immigrants Act of 2011). The bill was read for the first time. The second reading was objected to
http://www.senate.gov/galleries/pdcl/

Began the Rule 14 process of H.R.3012, the Fairness for High-Skilled Immigrants Act of 2011.

See below

http://democrats.senate.gov/?s=3012
http://democrats.senate.gov/2011/12/17/senate-floor-wrap-up-for-saturday-december-17-2011/

[lalaji]

thanks for the clarification.

[jackbrown_890]

Any updates guys.. 5 more days to go...

No updates on the bill...but it looks like on 23rd somewhere between 2 & 4 PM, they will bring up 3012 for 2nd reading..
there are 2 bills which were read 1st time on Dec. 17....another one is H.R. 440..

[mniwas]

Excellent article on Rule 14.

http://www.llsdc.org/attachments/wysiwyg/544/CRS-RS22299.pdf

[immitime]

Excellent article on Rule 14.

http://www.llsdc.org/attachments/wysiwyg/544/CRS-RS22299.pdf

Excellent indeed...Thanks for sharing

[mesan123]

http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/dispute-over-proposed-green-card-law-pits-brightest-immigrants-against-each-other/2012/01/03/gIQANdSKpP_story.html


still people are tring to push the immigration bill....hope to see some moment...one more week wait for senate to start ...fingers crossed :)

[jackbrown_890]

Thanks mesan, fingers crossed,,monday s less thn a week away

[kd2008]

My estimation is that proponents of the bill will still continue to try to persuade Sen. G to remove his hold. Invoking cloture to overcome the hold and/or filibuster will be the last resort option. Moreover, Sen. G. is the ranking member of Senate judiciary committee, and the unless the Republican support for the bill is near unanimous along with the Democrats, nobody is going to take the lead to bring the bill to vote. This bill is really not that important to any of the Senators to risk anything in an election cycle.

It is going to be a classic cat and mouse game. If Sen. G gives in, he will surely extract the pound of flesh in amendments he wants which renders the bill useless, after and if, it is sent back to the House with amendments.

At this stage, the tool of persuasion rests with Sen. Reid - the majority leader and Sen. McConnell, the minority leader. Since this bill was originally proposed by a Republican, Sen. Reid has no incentive to risk himself for it. I guess, so it rests with Sen. McConnell to take the lead. I don't think anyone is persuading him at all right now - at least not in public view.

With another political fight over continuation of payroll tax cut, Keystone pipeline, Debt ceiling looming, nobody is in the mood to show any bipartisanship.

So just lets continue to urge our Senators to support it, be patient, sit tight and watch.

[lalaji]

From president job council--Latest -- HR3012 listed

http://www.speaker.gov/blog/?postid=275098

[jackbrown_890]

There is also a possibility that Reid will lead 3012 because of change in FB category cap in this bill. Last election Reid had hard time getting elected...there were few reasons but if i remember correctly one of the reasons was, his support/votes from hispanic community had dropped because of Failure of DREAM act...and taking lead on this bill may help him a little... not only Reid, all other democrats need this to excite their latino base to not loose senate majority this year...and this will help them a little(FB Cap in this bill)
I also think, there is a possibility DREAM Act will surface again before election...but chances of passing DREAM are close to "0%"...but for political reasons Dems will want to bring up DREAM ACt before election..so this bill is the closest they can get (passed) to any Family Based Immigration reform this election year and with minority in the house. I am hoping to see more happen this year specially Smith in the house is being active in Legal Immigration reform but I still fear something wrong may come out of Republican sponsored immigration bill.
I don't know what happened in last month behind the doors during break and I don't know if there were any deals made between Dems and Reps on 3012 but almost all Dems. would vote for this bill along with Liberman. (close to 50)
From Reps side i think Collins has record of going across the isle and Senator Graham and McCain would be great to contact from Republican side since they have been proponents of immigration reform in the past. Mike Lee supports this bill along with Rubio, Brown, Blunt, Boozman, Risch, & Wicker. (We already have 7 Rep Senators) Grassley has influence on Reps but since 3012 is Republican bill, they should not have problem getting 10-15 Republican votes.
I do think it has to happen soon (hopefully without amendments) before they all get into campaign mode.,,..because after that it can be little difficult to get anything passed in congress. Amendments might be difficult to avoid in Senate.
but Lets hope for the best.

[kd2008]

From people I talked to - Letting Sen. G go ahead with the filibuster is a pandora's box. He may conflate it with American jobs, media will pick on it and the bill will get drowned in the opposition. The change in FB category is to appease "No piecemeal, CIR only" folks. Sen. Reid couldn't care less about the FB provision. He is in office for next 5 yrs.

[pakkpk]

Sen. Grassley is Mr. "No". He is objecting the nomination of Indian American - Ajit Varadaraj Pai, of Kansas, to be a Member
of the Federal Communications Commission. So sad.

[manubhai]

White House response to petition for GC for advanced degree holders

Please see in appropriate thread here:
http://www.qesehmk.org/forums/showthread.php?659-White-House-response-to-petition-for-GC-for-advanced-degree-holders

[lalaji]

http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/politics/2012/01/obama-assures-jobs-council-their-proposals-are-not-collecting-dust/

[manubhai]

http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/politics/2012/01/obama-assures-jobs-council-their-proposals-are-not-collecting-dust/

Lalaji,
I appreciate your effort in posting links and bringing attention to published material. But when you post a link, please also write a sentence or two to specify what this link is about and how it is pertinent to the thread or the issue being discussed.

The aim isn't to discourage from sharing, but I went through the link above, and I am still not sure what it has to do with immigration, immigration advocacy, or the relevant bills and laws being discussed here.

[mniwas]

Lalaji,
The aim isn't to discourage from sharing, but I went through the link above, and I am still not sure what it has to do with immigration, immigration advocacy, or the relevant bills and laws being discussed here.

The relevance is just that "Jobs council" had also recommended HR3012 as one of the many GOP bills Obama should consider.

[lalaji]

some more relevant posting reg job council which may benefil HR3012
http://www.realclearpolitics.com/video/2012/01/18/obama_tells_jobs_council_he_will_push_as_hard_as_p ossible_but_obviously_this_year_is_an_election_yea r.html

[pakkpk]

Here is the report by Obama's Jobs council. http://files.jobs-council.com/files/2012/01/JobsCouncil_2011YearEndReportWeb.pdf
Hopefully, Obama acts on the report rather than just plays election politics and create bitter environment between Senators from two parties.
The relevance is just that "Jobs council" had also recommended HR3012 as one of the many GOP bills Obama should consider.

[mesan123]

Finally it is Jan23rd.....senate will be back today.... hope they bring the HR 3012 or bill similar to that soon ....

[jackbrown_890]

If anyone is watching C-span (Senate) after 2, please report here any activity on 3012.
Thank you

[jackbrown_890]

3012 has been read 2nd time,

[lalaji]

what is next?

[kd2008]

Jackbrown, could you please let us know what happened? Was it referred to a committee after that? Was it scheduled for a vote?

[jackbrown_890]

It should show up in Senate Calender under general orders tomorrow...
there is no update on debate/vote on 3012 from anyone yet.

[kd2008]

It should show up in Senate Calender under general orders tomorrow...
there is no update on debate/vote on 3012 from anyone yet.

Thank you for the update

[jackbrown_890]

Jackbrown, could you please let us know what happened? Was it referred to a committee after that? Was it scheduled for a vote?

It was reported to be placed on the calendar

[mesan123]

CAn anyone of you enlighten me...what does this mean( sorry for me being so dumb :) )


It was reported to be placed on the calendar

[immitime]

CAn anyone of you enlighten me...what does this mean( sorry for me being so dumb :) )

Usually if it is placed in the calendar means it will come to the floor for voting, remember in the house, they placed in the calender as per today's agenda the voting will be on by 5:30 pm, no idea whether the bill will comeup for voting today! Just wait until 7:30 pm this evening. Hoping for the best.

[essenel]

So apparently H.R. 3012 was read a second time today (I got this link off of **):

http://gov.mtopgroup.com/ref/art1/senate-live.htm

The following bills were read en bloc for a second time:
H.R. 440 (To provide for the establishment of the Special Envoy to Promote Religious Freedom of Religious Minorities in the Near East and South Central Asia).
H.R. 3012 (Fairness for High-Skilled Immigrants Act of 2011).
The bills were read for a second time. Further readings were objected to and the bills were placed on the calendar.

What does this mean?

[lalaji]

Update from oh law firm:

01/23/2012: H.R. 3012 Update in the U.S. Senate

The Senate convened today. In the today's session, H.R. 3012 (Fairness for High-Skilled Immigrants Act of 2011) was read for a second time. Further readings were objected to and the bill was placed on the calendar. In a way way, it is a positive news to see resolution of this bill soon. It is interesting to see whether Sen. Harry Reid, Majority Leader, will introduce Motion for Cloture to break the potential filibuster by Senator Chuck Grassley.

[mesan123]

Thank you for the reply... :)


Usually if it is placed in the calendar means it will come to the floor for voting, remember in the house, they placed in the calender as per today's agenda the voting will be on by 5:30 pm, no idea whether the bill will comeup for voting today! Just wait until 7:30 pm this evening. Hoping for the best.

[girish989]

Senate Floor Wrap Up for Monday, January 23, 2012

Completed the Rule 14 process of H.R.3012, Fairness for High-Skilled Immigrants Act of 2011


http://democrats.senate.gov/2012/01/23/senate-floor-wrap-up-for-monday-january-23-2012/

Does any one know what - 'Completed the Rule 14' process means ?:confused:

[jackbrown_890]

yup, there is a long list of legislations on general orders calendar, i hope 3012 will move on the floor soon..,,i m not sure where is ** s advocacy dept. doing to push 3012,.we still need more grassroots advocacy efforts from immigration community.
Senate passed only 90 bills total in 2011 (lowest since 1995) and this is n election year,,,so this year also senate probably won't be too active...
.it seems like the movement in Eb2 has slowed down our push for this bill,,, come on people i request you not to leave the push for 3012 right now even though if you are current or if you have already received EAD/GC etc...lets have another round of emails/letters to senators

Thank you,

[jackbrown_890]

Does any one know what - 'Completed the Rule 14' process means ?:confused:

It means, they were able to avoid the bill from going to a subcommittee (where it would have stalled or would have been dead) and now it is directly placed on senate calendar.
There is no update on the debate/vote yet. let s hope it will happen this week and will pass without any amendments

[sweety0202]

RIN 1615-AB92 - rule for giving EAD to H4 spouses( of H1 primaries with approved i-140) seems to be updated.
http://www.reginfo.gov/public/do/eAgendaViewRule?pubId=201110&RIN=1615-AB92

The NPRM date was 03/00/2012 earlier.Now it has been updated to 01/00/2012.
Does anyone know what it means?

[sweety0202]

and it says that it is related to RIN 1615-ZB03 . I could not find any reference to 1615-ZB03. What is this RIN 1615-ZB03 about?

[jackbrown_890]

RIN 1615-AB92 - rule for giving EAD to H4 spouses( of H1 primaries with approved i-140) seems to be updated.
http://www.reginfo.gov/public/do/eAgendaViewRule?pubId=201110&RIN=1615-AB92

The NPRM date was 03/00/2012 earlier.Now it has been updated to 01/00/2012.
Does anyone know what it means?

oh law reported this news yesterday,,,also wrote "It appears there is no change for this plan and may be initiate the rule-making process soon"
there are 2 rules with the same RIN - number and one was updated on 01/00/2012 and other on 03/00/2012. I don't understand the date format and what does "00" mean.

[jackbrown_890]

on Thomas under congressional actions it has been updates as follow:
1/23/2012:
Read the second time. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 293.

and under general orders: you can find this bill on page 46

[pakkpk]

I pray to god that HR3012 be taken up today, after seeing that there are so many bills on general order "Read the second time and placed on the calendar" and still waiting for the vote. It may be the lawmaking priorities (advocacy/lobbying/majority's agenda) or the rift between both parties in House and Senate.

http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CCAL-112scal-2012-01-24/pdf/CCAL-112scal-2012-01-24.pdf

[immitime]

oh law reported this news yesterday,,,also wrote "It appears there is no change for this plan and may be initiate the rule-making process soon"
there are 2 rules with the same RIN - number and one was updated on 01/00/2012 and other on 03/00/2012. I don't understand the date format and what does "00" mean.

01/00/2012 ...meaning any day during Jan 2012 :o

[immitime]

I pray to god that HR3012 be taken up today, after seeing that there are so many bills on general order "Read the second time and placed on the calendar" and still waiting for the vote. It may be the lawmaking priorities (advocacy/lobbying/majority's agenda) or the rift between both parties in House and Senate.

http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CCAL-112scal-2012-01-24/pdf/CCAL-112scal-2012-01-24.pdf

Prayers and wiriting to your senators directly through printed letters makes lot of difference. H.R.3012 is almost at the end of the legislative process. only thing we need to know is whether Grass Uncle will go for a filli buster or not? and if it is .. then whether Sen.Majority leader is ready for a cloture vote appointment?, or if any amendment with mutual agreement with GUncle. so that this can be passed without much issues,. Legislative process takes its own sweet time. But We should contact our Senators and make them aware of this issue.

[sweety0202]

01/00/2012 ...meaning any day during Jan 2012 :o

if it is Jan 2012, I think it should be posted in Federal Register in Jan 2012. But I see the column for FR entry as NO.
and after FR entry, a RIN gets almost a month of comment period. Nothing about comment period is mentioned here too.
Hope things move. this would be a good rule if it becomes final.

[Kanmani]

sweety

Previously during June 2011 the date was 03/00/2012. I think they are now ready with the Notice to publish in the Federal Register for 60 days comment period. My gut feeling says the whole process would be get done by March 2012.

[sweety0202]

sweety

Previously during June 2011 the date was 03/00/2012. I think they are now ready with the Notice to publish in the Federal Register for 60 days comment period. My gut feeling says the whole process would be get done by March 2012.

Hope your words come true Kanmani :)
But when I looked at previous RINs which became final via the NPRM route, theres almost 1 year gap b/w NPRM comment end period and Final Rule.
Considering CO's intention to give EAD to as many ppl as possible, I agree with you. This might - just might - be a rule soon.

[immitime]

Hope your words come true Kanmani :)
But when I looked at previous RINs which became final via the NPRM route, theres almost 1 year gap b/w NPRM comment end period and Final Rule.
Considering CO's intention to give EAD to as many ppl as possible, I agree with you. This might - just might - be a rule soon.

They had the same kind of RIN back in 2009 to apply for I-485 without the date being current. GUncle wrote a letter to Mr.Mayarkoas, aslo his tails as officers in USCIS leaked out the internal memo to the media, and that plan is in the dust bin. Wishing all the best to this plan. Heads should roll from USCIS there are lot of hard core conservative right wing people(as officers) waiting to chop any immigrant at any point of time, they just want a simple reason to do that, Denials, RFE's are most common nowadays, even at the stage of I-485 adjustment of status, lot of genuine cases are suffering.

[lalaji]

Whether this EAD is equivalent to EAD filing during 485? Please throw some light...

[Kanmani]

Whether this EAD is equivalent to EAD filing during 485? Please throw some light...

NOPE

This EAD is equivalent to L2 EAD.
I-485 EAD nowadays is a combo with Advance Parole ( mini GC)

[letheQ]

sweety

Previously during June 2011 the date was 03/00/2012. I think they are now ready with the Notice to publish in the Federal Register for 60 days comment period. My gut feeling says the whole process would be get done by March 2012.


http://www.reginfo.gov/public/do/eAgendaViewRule?pubId=201104&RIN=1615-AB92
The NPRM is still 03/00/2012 for the rule .Am I missing something?

[vishnu]

oh no - looks like it has been changed back to March...I most certainly say 01/00/2012 till about 30 mins ago...

[sweety0202]

oh no - looks like it has been changed back to March...I most certainly say 01/00/2012 till about 30 mins ago...

http://www.reginfo.gov/public/do/eAgendaViewRule?pubId=201104&RIN=1615-AB92

201104 - this has 03/00/2012.

http://www.reginfo.gov/public/do/eAgendaViewRule?pubId=201110&RIN=1615-AB92
201110 - this has 01/00/2012.

Latest has 01/00/2012.

[letheQ]

http://www.reginfo.gov/public/do/eAgendaViewRule?pubId=201104&RIN=1615-AB92

201104 - this has 03/00/2012.

http://www.reginfo.gov/public/do/eAgendaViewRule?pubId=201110&RIN=1615-AB92
201110 - this has 01/00/2012.

Latest has 01/00/2012.


Hmmm........ Interesting ....So there are only 6 days left to publish?
Very happy to hear that . But this shouldn't be a compromise to H.R.3012

[sweety0202]

They had the same kind of RIN back in 2009 to apply for I-485 without the date being current. GUncle wrote a letter to Mr.Mayarkoas, aslo his tails as officers in USCIS leaked out the internal memo to the media, and that plan is in the dust bin. Wishing all the best to this plan. Heads should roll from USCIS there are lot of hard core conservative right wing people(as officers) waiting to chop any immigrant at any point of time, they just want a simple reason to do that, Denials, RFE's are most common nowadays, even at the stage of I-485 adjustment of status, lot of genuine cases are suffering.


right. Now also GUncle might come into picture.
But if you look at the leaked memo (dated back in 2010), u'll see that this particular case was mentioned as "approved by uscis officials" or something similar to that.Nothing can be said for sure considering this is election year.
Lets pray for this to come true. it should help all nationalities.

[iamdeb]

right. Now also GUncle might come into picture.
But if you look at the leaked memo (dated back in 2010), u'll see that this particular case was mentioned as "approved by uscis officials" or something similar to that.Nothing can be said for sure considering this is election year.
Lets pray for this to come true. it should help all nationalities.

Is the process of rule making different from the regular process for making a bill into law?
Incase it moves forward,arnd what time frame will this rule be implemented?
Can anyone plz shed some light into the process of rule making.

[letheQ]

Is the process of rule making different from the regular process for making a bill into law?
Incase it moves forward,arnd what time frame will this rule be implemented?
Can anyone plz shed some light into the process of rule making.

Yes .It is different.Go through the below link to better understand about NPRM & Rule making .
It will take minimum of 60 - 90 days, if they decided to go further 'with out delay in the process till the rule made final'.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rulemaking

[vizcard]

So its "on the calendar". What does that mean ? When is it actually scheduled for ?

[jackbrown_890]

So its "on the calendar". What does that mean ? When is it actually scheduled for ?

No word on vote yet....someone will have to file motion for cloture to break potential filibuster from Grassley.,..i am hoping Reid or Schumer will do that soon,,with 16 total signatures on motion to cloture,,or convince Grassley to remove his hold (more difficult)...no one has said anything yet about cloture yet.

[vgraj1]

Hi veni001/sportsfan33,

In case HR 3012 becomes law, will there be any effect at all on PD for EB 2 IC since the spillover from EB2 ROW is anyway coming to EB 2 IC ?

[lalaji]

Irish E3 update..Lokks like will not be part of HR3012..

http://www.irishcentral.com/news/White-House-meets-Irish-lobby--to-discuss-new-visa-bill-for-Ireland--138031223.html

[Prabhas]

vgraj1,

Even if it becomes law i don't think it will be effective before FY-2013 start.

Veni,

I am confused. If HR.3012 becomes a law, wouldnt that be applicable immediately that is from OCT-2011 or the current fiscal year-2012? I believe we should get around 30k(85%) visas to both EB2 I/C from this fiscal year FY-2012 itself. Please correct me if I was wrong.

[vgraj1]

Hi Veni001,

If we make an assumption that HR 3012 is passed with an effective start date of April 1, 2012, can we estimate the impact on PD for EB 2 IC ?

[veni001]

Veni,

I am confused. If HR.3012 becomes a law, wouldnt that be applicable immediately that is from OCT-2011 or the current fiscal year-2012? I believe we should get around 30k(85%) visas to both EB2 I/C from this fiscal year FY-2012 itself. Please correct me if I was wrong.

Only if it says that it will be effective immediately after signed by the president! In most cases will have a future (effective) date.


Hi Veni001,

If we make an assumption that HR 3012 is passed with an effective start date of April 1, 2012, can we estimate the impact on PD for EB 2 IC ?

Don't want to speculate at this moment, but if and when it becomes law it won't be a tough task to predict cut-off dates.

[narendarrao]

Looks like this Bill is not an active one yet.

http://www.senate.gov/pagelayout/legislative/b_three_sections_with_teasers/active_leg_page.htm

Currently Active

Bills that may receive floor action this week.

Senate chamber

Debt limit, disapproval of increase of 1.2 trillion dollars submitted on January 12, 2012 S.J.Res.34 H.J.Res.98
Federal Aviation Administration, through February 17, 2012 H.R.3800

House chamber

Federal Aviation Administration S.223 H.R.658
Federal Aviation Administration, through February 17, 2012 H.R.3800
Payroll tax cut, extend
(H.R.3630 contains a variety of other provisions, including sections related to unemployment benefits, the Keystone XL pipeline, and Medicare.) S.1917, S.1931, S.1944 H.R.3630

[jackbrown_890]

Interesting to know who s lobbying for 3012:

http://www.opensecrets.org/lobby/billsum.php?id=128399

Some of them are not surprising and some of them are really interesting like:
US Chamber of Commerce
AILA is on the list as expected
FAIR is on the list - I don't know why, are they lobbying for it or against it???
Stanford University

and the most interesting is -
American Jewish Cmt -

[abcx13]

Interesting to know who s lobbying for 3012:

http://www.opensecrets.org/lobby/billsum.php?id=128399

Some of them are not surprising and some of them are really interesting like:
US Chamber of Commerce
AILA is on the list as expected
FAIR is on the list - I don't know why, are they lobbying for it or against it???
Stanford University

and the most interesting is -
American Jewish Cmt -




Interesting list. Sadly the reports don't tell you if it's for/against or any more detail. Good to see my alma mater, Stanford, on the list. :)

[cricfan]

This is what I found when I clicked on "No. of reports and specific issues" for American Jewish cmte :

"Support for comprehensive immigration reform; Support for Fairness for High-Skilled Immigrants Act of 2011 (S.1857/H.R. 3012); Support for Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors Act of 2011 (S.952/H.R.1842); Opposition to DHS Secure Communities program as implemented;......"

So, I guess they are supporting HR 3012.

[vgraj1]

Hi veni001,

HR3012 has been placed on the Senate Calendar 293 and it might come up for voting soon. There is a transition rule in the text placed before the Senate which says the following for FY-2012 Transition Rules:

(A) For fiscal year 2012, 15 percent of the immigrant visas made available under each of paragraphs (2) and (3) of section 203(b) of such Act (8 U.S.C. 1153(b)) shall be allotted to immigrants who are natives of a foreign state or dependent area that was not one of the two states with the largest aggregate numbers of natives obtaining immigrant visas during fiscal year 2010 under such paragraphs.

Do you know what this means for FY 2012?

Note: You can do a google search to get the text of bill in 'Bill Text 112th Congress (2011-2012) H.R.3012.PCS'

[immitime]

Looks like this Bill is not an active one yet.

http://www.senate.gov/pagelayout/legislative/b_three_sections_with_teasers/active_leg_page.htm

Currently Active

Bills that may receive floor action this week.

Senate chamber

Debt limit, disapproval of increase of 1.2 trillion dollars submitted on January 12, 2012 S.J.Res.34 H.J.Res.98
Federal Aviation Administration, through February 17, 2012 H.R.3800

House chamber

Federal Aviation Administration S.223 H.R.658
Federal Aviation Administration, through February 17, 2012 H.R.3800
Payroll tax cut, extend
(H.R.3630 contains a variety of other provisions, including sections related to unemployment benefits, the Keystone XL pipeline, and Medicare.) S.1917, S.1931, S.1944 H.R.3630

H.R.3012 only will be taken after filing a Cloture motion. unless GUncle removes his hold and they decide this bill to Unanimous consideration. We all will come to know if they decide to do a cloture mition. I think with the kind of lobbying it will not be too far. And all who are backlogged severly will be happy and Free to live their lives. Praying and hoping for the best to happen soon.;)

[idiotic]

H.R.3012 only will be taken after filing a Cloture motion. unless GUncle removes his hold and they decide this bill to Unanimous consideration. We all will come to know if they decide to do a cloture mition. I think with the kind of lobbying it will not be too far. And all who are backlogged severly will be happy and Free to live their lives. Praying and hoping for the best to happen soon.;)

Cloture is required only if the bill is filibustered. HR3012 is not filibustered yet.

[immitime]

Cloture is required only if the bill is filibustered. HR3012 is not filibustered yet.

Nope, Cloture is required if GUncle never removes his hold. in anticipation of fillibuster cloutre motion is invoked. If the bill is fillibustered then the bill is dead and will not be considered for voting. The Rule 14 helped the bill not to go to a Judicial committee and get buried. (Think about the time when H.R.3012 was put on Congress legislative calender for voting in the same way this can take some time)

[sweety0202]

Nope, Cloture is required if GUncle never removes his hold. in anticipation of fillibuster cloutre motion is invoked. If the bill is fillibustered then the bill is dead and will not be considered for voting. The Rule 14 helped the bill not to go to a Judicial committee and get buried. (Think about the time when H.R.3012 was put on Congress legislative calender for voting in the same way this can take some time)

someone had posted GUncle's reply in Trackitt. Per the reply, he has no intentions to remove hold, unless his amendments are agreed upon.
Cloture is THE ONLY option left. So many ppl's life changing person now is Mr.Reid.

[Kanmani]

Cloture is required only if the bill is filibustered. HR3012 is not filibustered yet.

Cloture is not filed after filibuster. It is filed inorder to avoid the filibuster. If there is an objection (which is otherwise called hold/Notice of intent to object) for taking up the Bill , then the Bill cannot be discussed in the Senate Floor.

Once a bill is under hold it cannot be debated as such ,so as to start a debate there should be an vote whether to start the debate or not ( let us say Vote 1). If this vote1 is failed this is called filibuster.

To avoid this Vote1 , the cloture motion is filed to straight away go to small debate(within time limits) later final voting .

Some of the previous methods of looooong overnight debates to kill the bill in the name of filibusters are not in practice/abandoned.

[Mavrick]

01/26/2012: H.R. 3012 in the Senate

Immigration Law website says :

The Senate convened today to take care of Motion to Proceed to H.J. Res. 98 (Relating to the disapproval of the President's exercise of authority to increase the debt limit). The motion was not agreed to by vote of 44-52 today. The legislative calendar number for H.J. Res. 98 is 294, while the legislative calendar number for H.R. 3012 is 293. Sometimes a bill is passed in the Senate by unaimous consent without vote if both sides of aisle agree to the bill. No one can however imagine such scenario at this point. The Senate floor monitor indicates that no motion to proceed for H.R. 3012, General Calendar 293, has been presented on the floor and after H.J. 98, Calendar 294 motion to proceed was rejected, the Senate adjourned until 5:00 p.m. this evening. There was no vote scheduled for other motions or bills early today, but we should watch carefully the Senate floor's session this evening. Please stay tuned to this website.

[Kanmani]

H.J.Res.98 is an urgent bill , so obviously it bypassed our bill which has an earlier number in the calendar.

Lets hope H.R.3012 is the next in row.

[vishnu]

Hope so Kanmani, but unsure though. There are many other bills (at least 15-20) which in the 200s (ie, calendar #225 etc) which are read for second time and placed on calendar. Of course, the others may not have the same lobbying effort and super majority pass in House as our very own 3012. Hopeing for the best.

[trackitgc]

Source: immigration-law.com

01/26/2012: H.R. 3012 in the Senate

The Senate convened today to take care of Motion to Proceed to H.J. Res. 98 (Relating to the disapproval of the President's exercise of authority to increase the debt limit). The motion was not agreed to by vote of 44-52 today. The legislative calendar number for H.J. Res. 98 is 294, while the legislative calendar number for H.R. 3012 is 293. Sometimes a bill is passed in the Senate by unaimous consent without vote if both sides of aisle agree to the bill. No one can however imagine such scenario at this point. The Senate floor monitor indicates that no motion to proceed for H.R. 3012, General Calendar 293, has thus far been presented on the floor. Please stay tuned to this website.

[immitime]

01/26/2012: H.R. 3012 in the Senate

Immigration Law website says :

The Senate convened today to take care of Motion to Proceed to H.J. Res. 98 (Relating to the disapproval of the President's exercise of authority to increase the debt limit). The motion was not agreed to by vote of 44-52 today. The legislative calendar number for H.J. Res. 98 is 294, while the legislative calendar number for H.R. 3012 is 293. Sometimes a bill is passed in the Senate by unaimous consent without vote if both sides of aisle agree to the bill. No one can however imagine such scenario at this point. The Senate floor monitor indicates that no motion to proceed for H.R. 3012, General Calendar 293, has been presented on the floor and after H.J. 98, Calendar 294 motion to proceed was rejected, the Senate adjourned until 5:00 p.m. this evening. There was no vote scheduled for other motions or bills early today, but we should watch carefully the Senate floor's session this evening. Please stay tuned to this website.

This same website OH law firm, was connecting everything in the world to H.R.3012, Irish lobbying. yada..yada yada..even one White House appointment he said it will affect H.R.3012, we know what attorneys need. just fear mongering and keeping would be immigrants on their toes! People are more aware of the Law now adays, their techniques no more works.

Just wait for the good thing to happen, will free all of us from the clutches of this idiotic wait. Keep the Prayers high and contact the Senators through email.

Additionally. for your information. Procedure for invoking Cloture in the Senate.

http://www.senate.gov/reference/resources/pdf/98-425.pdf

[manubhai]

This same website OH law firm, was connecting everything in the world to H.R.3012, Irish lobbying. yada..yada yada..even one White House appointment he said it will affect H.R.3012, we know what attorneys need. just fear mongering and keeping would be immigrants on their toes! People are more aware of the Law now adays, their techniques no more works.

Just wait for the good thing to happen, will free all of us from the clutches of this idiotic wait. Keep the Prayers high and contact the Senators through email.

Agreed. We may be wrong if the senate does end up taking this today, but I doubt it.

Continuing what you are saying, and harping on what I usually do here - Its all good and nice that we are talking about this bill and law and details and articles and websites here. But at the end of it all, what will matter is whether or not this senator and that senator are willing to vote for it.

We can't do much anyways. But that doesn't mean we should not do the little we can. If you are spending your time on this forum, and NOT taking the time to call the senators, you need to rethink the real worthiness and effectiveness of how you are "wasting" your time on this board.

PLEASE, take 20 seconds and make a call. And then one more. And one more. It WILL have an impact.

[idiotic]

Cloture is not filed after filibuster. It is filed inorder to avoid the filibuster. If there is an objection (which is otherwise called hold/Notice of intent to object) for taking up the Bill , then the Bill cannot be discussed in the Senate Floor.

Once a bill is under hold it cannot be debated as such ,so as to start a debate there should be an vote whether to start the debate or not ( let us say Vote 1). If this vote1 is failed this is called filibuster.

To avoid this Vote1 , the cloture motion is filed to straight away go to small debate(within time limits) later final voting .

Some of the previous methods of looooong overnight debates to kill the bill in the name of filibusters are not in practice/abandoned.

http://www.fas.org/sgp/crs/misc/98-712.pdf
"Holds are an informal device unique to the upper body."...
"It is up to the majority leader to decide whether, or for how long, he will honor a
colleague’s hold. Scheduling the business of the Senate is the fundamental prerogative of the majority leader, and it is done in consultation with the minority leader."

[jackbrown_890]

No good news today from Senate....day in senate is almost over..... Reid did not file cloture motion for 3012...he did file cloture motion for some other bill (don't remember the number since it wasn't 3012).

[lalaji]

Update from Oh Law firm:

01/27/2012: Will Advocates of Stand-Alone H.R. 3012 Alienate Irish Support?

Irish support of the elimination of per country limit in employment-based immigration system is obviously conditioned upon their Irish E-3 visa legislation being attached to the H.R.3012. In other words, Irish community is supporting the Senate bill which is sponsored by Sen. Schumer tacking their E-3 visa legislation on the text of H.R. 3012 and not the House bill H.R. 3012 itself. From the perspectives of the Irish community, passage of the stand-alone H.R. 3012 implies a requiem for their Irish E-3 visa legislation. For the reasons, advocates of the stand-alone H.R. 3012 can take a risk of alienating their ally, Irish community, that can potentially work against the passage of the stand-alone H.R. 3012 bill in the Senate. Something to think about for the advocates of legislation to eliminate per country limit in the employment-based immigration. Wishful thinking can blind one from seeing the reality and importance of compromise and negotiation in the legislative process. Elimination of per country limit is important from the perspectives of fairness. It is just the reality of process of legislation in this country which the advocates should not ignore.

[immitime]

Update from Oh Law firm:

01/27/2012: Will Advocates of Stand-Alone H.R. 3012 Alienate Irish Support?

Irish support of the elimination of per country limit in employment-based immigration system is obviously conditioned upon their Irish E-3 visa legislation being attached to the H.R.3012. In other words, Irish community is supporting the Senate bill which is sponsored by Sen. Schumer tacking their E-3 visa legislation on the text of H.R. 3012 and not the House bill H.R. 3012 itself. From the perspectives of the Irish community, passage of the stand-alone H.R. 3012 implies a requiem for their Irish E-3 visa legislation. For the reasons, advocates of the stand-alone H.R. 3012 can take a risk of alienating their ally, Irish community, that can potentially work against the passage of the stand-alone H.R. 3012 bill in the Senate. Something to think about for the advocates of legislation to eliminate per country limit in the employment-based immigration. Wishful thinking can blind one from seeing the reality and importance of compromise and negotiation in the legislative process. Elimination of per country limit is important from the perspectives of fairness. It is just the reality of process of legislation in this country which the advocates should not ignore.

As always, this OH law firm is good for nothing, what connection this Irish bill have with H.R.3012? H.R.3012 already passed House with overwhelming majority, that does not mean that any TDH can add anything and present it along with it. and This bill is already placed in Senate Calender. The wait time is only to file cloture and have the voting date. That is about it. This bill and Irish E-3 bill are two seperate issues. OH want some traffic to his site and fear mongering words always is his habit. Stay Tuned... sound familiar???

[idiotic]

As always, this OH law firm is good for nothing, what connection this Irish bill have with H.R.3012? H.R.3012 already passed House with overwhelming majority, that does not mean that any TDH can add anything and present it along with it. and This bill is already placed in Senate Calender. The wait time is only to file cloture and have the voting date. That is about it. This bill and Irish E-3 bill are two seperate issues. OH want some traffic to his site and fear mongering words always is his habit. Stay Tuned... sound familiar???

I always get the impression that they want to see the bill getting derailed. They wont be shy of posting lies and their own imaginations without any basis. A better source of reliable events and more upto date news is www.aila.org.

[kd2008]

Monday floor schedule - another disappointment

http://democrats.senate.gov/2012/01/26/senate-floor-schedule-for-monday-january-30-2012/

Please do not count on HR 3012 being taken up at all. It has for all practical purposes gone dormant. General orders under Rule VIII contains all those bills which nobody wants to take the initiative to vote. HR 3012 in one of them.

If the lobbyists are any good and 16 Senators sign up for cloture, then we might have hope. I V is hopeful of removing Sen. G's hold. He rarely does so. It is futile. But worth a try. The cloture route is a hail Mary pass - absolute last ditch thing to do. So even if there are 16 Senators, nothing will be done for a few months.

Lets thank our stars that at least the VB is still moving ahead for EB2-IC.

[vishnu]

In general, I would not have any expectations over legislation passage. However, the overwhelming majority support for 3012 in House (without debate that too) still makes me confident that this legislation is something that congress wants to pass

[immitime]

Please do not count on HR 3012 being taken up at all. It has for all practical purposes gone dormant. General orders under Rule VIII contains all those bills which nobody wants to take the initiative to vote. HR 3012 in one of them.

If the lobbyists are any good and 16 Senators sign up for cloture, then we might have hope. I V is hopeful of removing Sen. G's hold. He rarely does so. It is futile. But worth a try. The cloture route is a hail Mary pass - absolute last ditch thing to do. So even if there are 16 Senators, nothing will be done for a few months.

Lets thank our stars that at least the VB is still moving ahead for EB2-IC.

If this bill was for dying dormant like that.. in first place Reid would not have considered to have it on Rule XIV.. He could have made this bill to go to any Judiciary committee. For this non-controversial bill..(there is created controversy in internet! but among politicians this is really FAIR bill only still) cloture motion is not a big deal. but there might be other priorities before taking this bill.

Please don't spread un necessary rumours about H.R. 3012

[gcq]

If this bill was for dying dormant like that.. in first place Reid would not have considered to have it on Rule XIV.. He could have made this bill to go to any Judiciary committee. For this non-controversial bill..(there is created controversy in internet! but among politicians this is really FAIR bill only still) cloture motion is not a big deal. but there might be other priorities before taking this bill.

Please don't spread un necessary rumours about H.R. 3012
Agree. Nowadays cloture is a normal business in Senate. It will remain so as long as obstructionists like Grassley are in senate. This bill will move to its logical conclusion.

kd,
I have to say your intuitions are incorrect as far as HR 3012 goes.
Happy for EB2 movement, but rest of us need GC too.

[mniwas]

I agree with immitime... please don't be discouraged ...and please don't talk negative... some of us are still in EB3 and desperately waiting for this bill to pass.

I also agree that... there was no compulsion on Reid to bring this bill to the senate floor.

[manubhai]

Please do not count on HR 3012 being taken up at all.

It has for all practical purposes gone dormant. General orders under Rule VIII contains all those bills which nobody wants to take the initiative to vote. HR 3012 in one of them.

If the lobbyists are any good and 16 Senators sign up for cloture, then we might have hope. I V is hopeful of removing Sen. G's hold. He rarely does so. It is futile. But worth a try. The cloture route is a hail Mary pass - absolute last ditch thing to do. So even if there are 16 Senators, nothing will be done for a few months.

Lets thank our stars that at least the VB is still moving ahead for EB2-IC.

KD - If someone else would have written it, I'd have not found it important to reply. You are one of those who has helped and guided a truck load of people here.

Only for that reason, I'd request that, in a note like what you have written, you differentiate between stating facts and stating your "opinion" of [arguably subjective?] facts.

Immitime - KD's "opinion" that we should "not count on HR 3012" and that "HR3012 is one of them" is valid and welcome because it should give us a pause and a reality check on the likelihood of this going through. I also wont go out to express as strongly as you that he's spreading rumors. But I get your hot blooded passion for this bill ;)

I am not an expert here, but I know that things run really slowly. Which senator's which assistant is working his butt off to make a secretive list of senators who will be willing to be part of the cloture, we dont know. I am not a big fan of **, but I assume they are doing SOMETHING after the money they are taking in. Also, citing the election season as a reason for this thing dying down may not always be accurate. THIS is the time when contributions from commercial entities are important. This is also the time, when the extremely hated congress would love to say that not everything is killed in the house/senate and we do pass some bills. This bill seems contentious on the outside because people like us are seeing message boards and online comments on articles and petitions and the likes. But its likely different for the powers. There's a reason this "simple, tiny" thing passed the house with flying colors. There's a reason why "someone" felt that a senate sub-committee hearing wasn't required.

It is my opinion that this is not dead. Not even close.

On a side note - I was tempted not to reply. If all of us start saying that HR3012 is dead, it'll be awesome. Let the phone calls and meetings from the opposing side die down because they think ours have.

And to everyone else - You just spent 40 seconds reading the above message. You could have made calls to 2 senators in that much time. THAT would have helped you more than reading the above message. If kd's opinion about the current state of affairs is correct, we don't have too much time to bring the fight back.

[immitime]

Agree. Nowadays cloture is a normal business in Senate. It will remain so as long as obstructionists like Grassley are in senate. This bill will move to its logical conclusion.

kd,
I have to say your intuitions are incorrect as far as HR 3012 goes.
Happy for EB2 movement, but rest of us need GC too.

All GC allocation should be First in First out way without any category, because people now on EB-3 India here in US for 12 to 14 years minimal, most of them are Law Abiding TAX payers (mean they have a job and also 35 % tax is paid I am talking about people who want to become GC holders and eventually Citizens in their life time!!!) and they do not have a representation yet in Washington D.C. This is exactly a Human Rights violation and ridiculous to keep the dates still in Aug 2002 for EB-3 India

People can have different views but I accept it as their own views.

[kd2008]

KD - If someone else would have written it, I'd have not found it important to reply. You are one of those who has helped and guided a truck load of people here.

Only for that reason, I'd request that, in a note like what you have written, you differentiate between stating facts and stating your "opinion" of [arguably subjective?] facts.

Immitime - KD's "opinion" that we should "not count on HR 3012" and that "HR3012 is one of them" is valid and welcome because it should give us a pause and a reality check on the likelihood of this going through. I also wont go out to express as strongly as you that he's spreading rumors. But I get your hot blooded passion for this bill ;)

I am not an expert here, but I know that things run really slowly. Which senator's which assistant is working his butt off to make a secretive list of senators who will be willing to be part of the cloture, we dont know. I am not a big fan of **, but I assume they are doing SOMETHING after the money they are taking in. Also, citing the election season as a reason for this thing dying down may not always be accurate. THIS is the time when contributions from commercial entities are important. This is also the time, when the extremely hated congress would love to say that not everything is killed in the house/senate and we do pass some bills. This bill seems contentious on the outside because people like us are seeing message boards and online comments on articles and petitions and the likes. But its likely different for the powers. There's a reason this "simple, tiny" thing passed the house with flying colors. There's a reason why "someone" felt that a senate sub-committee hearing wasn't required.

It is my opinion that this is not dead. Not even close.

On a side note - I was tempted not to reply. If all of us start saying that HR3012 is dead, it'll be awesome. Let the phone calls and meetings from the opposing side die down because they think ours have.

And to everyone else - You just spent 40 seconds reading the above message. You could have made calls to 2 senators in that much time. THAT would have helped you more than reading the above message. If kd's opinion about the current state of affairs is correct, we don't have too much time to bring the fight back.

Manubhai, thank you for your thoughts. Yes, please let me be very categorical here. My post was my opinion, and my thoughts. It is only an opinion. Not a rumor, not an assessment of what is happening or where the bill is headed. I apologize for not being clear about it.

I am in contact with both my Senators office. Talked to their field reps. Urging them every week in every which way possible. Emailing them pro-HR 3012 articles. Pleading my own personal situation. I have looked up Indian last names at http://www.yellowpages.com/whitepages and contacted folks to ask for their support. Urged Indian doctors in the community to take leadership.

If people don't want the bill to die, then do at least all of the above.

You are absolutely right about the reality check part. Folks like the OH law firm give an impression that the bill will be taken up shortly. People post on this forum that they were disappointed that it was not taken up today.

To me that is where I felt I needed to step in and give a reality check. Believe me, if it were to be taken up, voted or passed by unanimous consent or whatever, it will be made public at least on the day of vote. The day of House vote was known six days before the actual vote.

So lets buckle down, keep spreading the word and keep urging our Senators.

[imdeng]

Folks - do not be disappointed. Senate moves slowly and we have only just begun this session. Things will move. The bill is not dying/dormant - putting it under Rule-IVX shows that there is progress. Give the process the time it needs and you DO YOUR PART - WRITE to Senators (physical letters) and CALL their office. I have been writing physical letters and I am getting replies (one was even hand-signed!). Replies are the usual boilerplate - but someone somewhere is reading everything and it is adding to the mountain of evidence for the bill. DO YOUR BIT.

[mesan123]

Source: Ron forum

The Congressional Research Service released a report titled: Numerical Limits on Employment-Based Immigration: Analysis of the Per-Country Ceilings. This report articulates the pros and cons of the per country limits.
http://www.imminfo.com/Resources/Misc/R42048.pdf

[lalaji]

American jewisg commitee support for HR3012

http://www.ajc.org/atf/cf/%7B42d75369-d582-4380-8395-d25925b85eaf%7D/FAIRNESS_HIGH_SKILLED_IMMIGRANTS_ACT_HR3012_LETTER _112911.PDF

[lalaji]

Update from Oh law firm:

01/28/2012: Up-to-Date Report of Irish S. 1983 Lobby to Secure 60 Votes in the Senate to Break Sen. Grassley's Potential Filibuster

Irish community appears to work hard in a fashion of all court pressing in support of the Senator Schumer bill, S. 1983, according to the Irish Central news report today. In a way, this can also be a good news for the H. R. 3012 supporters in that they can enjoy double dipping in the event that the stand-alone H.R. 3012 fails on the Senate floor, even though there is no information available about the Irish lobbyists' action on the stand-alone H.R. 3012. Should S. 1983 pass in the Senate, the bill should face some problem in the House because of the undocumented Irish relief provision. This site will keep monitoring the move in the Irish community.


Despite heavy snowfall on Thursday, 19th January, over 400 people attended a meeting at the West Side Irish American Club, Greater Cleveland’s to meet the Irish Lobby for Immigration Reform (ILIR).

ILIR visited Ohio to enlist support for the current Irish E3 Visa Bill (Senate Bill 1983). The bill was introduced in the Senate by Senator Schumer.

The lobbyist group was also enlisting support within the Irish American community to persuade U.S. Senator Rob Portman to support S1983.

Speaking at Cleveland’s largest and oldest Irish club Ciaran Staunton, President of the Irish Lobby for Immigration Reform, explained that neither the 400 Irish present nor their ancestors could have immigrated from Ireland to the USA under the current immigration law.

Many of those in attendance had immigrated to Ohio before the 1965 Immigration Act was passed.

While in Cleveland ILIR engaged in a series of public and private meetings with Irish American organizations and leaders in the Northern Ohio area. Among those pledging support were: Cleveland City Council President, Martin Sweeney, Members of the Ohio AOH, including past Ohio AOH President Roger Weist and current AOH National Director, Danny O’ Connell as well as members of the GAA and other community groups.

A crucial meeting took place on Friday between Senator Portman’s Ohio staff and leaders of the Irish American Ohio community to lobby for support of the Irish E3 visa and to advise Senator Portman on their position regarding the importance of this issue to their community.

Clevland Irish leader, Attorney John Myers stated that the “The Irish American Community is mobilized in it’s support for Senate Bill 1983 and understands the importance of Senator Portman’s support in getting to the magic “60” in the U.S. Senate.”


See more: Irish Immigration, Charles Schumer, ILIR, US Politics

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8 Comments
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Report abusePosted by bonjouryall on Jan 29, 2012, 11:06 AM EST
Best of luck to Sen. Shumer and these efforts! I would love to increase the number involved. I also realize that with the dismal economy, getting this bill passed with the present number will be a tremendous success.
Report abusePosted by Murph46 on Jan 29, 2012, 10:53 AM EST
I chuckle at some of you-Georgie is a curmudgeon who doesn't have anything better to do than stir the pot to agitate you(I'll even admit to doing similar things at times)the way to stop the Georgies is to NOT RESPOND ,because every time you do you play his game!
Report abusePosted by paddyRanger on Jan 29, 2012, 10:29 AM EST
Ah the racist rat georgieboydillon rears his ugly head out of the sewer ......."I oppose special sweetheart deals for those Irish who want to desert their country and settle in mine. Let them fix their own homeland, and not run like the proverbial rats from a sinking ship. As an Irish citizen I'll be writing" ..........anyone else see the stinking hypocrisy from this moron, "Settle in my homeland, he is an American, yet he thinks he can talk about Irish issues because he is an American with Irish Citizenship.......Biggest mistake (if it is even true) was giving this American creep an Irish passport, and even if he does have one, does not make him Irish at all, my cat is more Irish than this gobshite
Report abusePosted by Murph46 on Jan 29, 2012, 10:25 AM EST
I live just south of Cleveland and have no problem with such meetings,the jump from Schumer to Portman is I find extraordinary but nonetheless with the backing of such groups I feel it is fine.I hope it all works out.
Report abusePosted by GeorgeDillon on Jan 29, 2012, 08:12 AM EST
boherlihy: I don't know why you bothered to post the same note twice. Mediocrity repeated is mediocrity doubled. But it seems you are claiming the right to emigrate to the US on the basis of family reunion regulations (the other grounds you mention, that you lived here previously, have no bearing). If you fall within the family reunion stipulations why would you need special treatment? You already qualify!
Report abusePosted by boherlihy on Jan 28, 2012, 11:45 PM EST
To GeorgeDillon: your post is factually incorrect and personally insulting. If you wish for anybody (including Senator Schumer)to take your opinions seriously, then I suggest you state them with at least some degree of truth and objectivity. For example - do not, I repeat, do not paint everybody with the same brush. We Irish who want to emigrate to the United States are not running "like the proverbial rats from a sinking ship". Case in point... those of us (myself included) who have family that have legally settled in the United States and wish to join them; and/or those of us (myself included) who have lived in the United States (legally) before that wish to return.
Report abusePosted by boherlihy on Jan 28, 2012, 11:19 PM EST
To GeorgeDillon: Your comment is factually incorrect and personally insulting. If you want anybody to take your opinions seriously and objectively, then you should not paint everybody with the same brush. We Irish who want to emigrate to the United States are not running "like the proverbial rats from a sinking ship". Case in point... those of us (myself included) who have legalized family in the United States and wish to join them; or those of us (myself included) who have lived in the United States (legally) who wish to return to the United States?
Report abusePosted by GeorgeDillon on Jan 28, 2012, 03:41 PM EST
I oppose special sweetheart deals for those Irish who want to desert their country and settle in mine. Let them fix their own homeland, and not run like the proverbial rats from a sinking ship. As an Irish citizen I'll be writing to Senator Schumer to tell him to cut out this foolishness. He's only wasting his time on this nonsense.


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Read more: http://www.irishcentral.com/news/Successful-Irish-immigration-meetings-in-Cleveland-Ohio-138262219.html#ixzz1krhXWIrV

[pakkpk]

I was reading the past progress of HR 3012 and noticed that it took 11 days to vote on HR 3012 on House floor after receiving from Judiciary committee and that also without any major oppose. I think we are expecting too much from Senate as with Grass(***) is still wet and it may take 20-25 days to (dry up) taken up on floor to vote.
http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?d112:HR03012:@@@X

[sweety0202]

about ead for H4.. this is what Ron has replied:
This is something that they have been considering for several years. It isn't clear if they can simply do it or if they have to go through the Federal Register notice and comment process. One practical consideration is the unemployment rate. With H4s, there are no LCA requirements or other assurances that the individual will be paid the prevailing wage. In a time of high unemployment, this could be seen as a step that would undercut the ability of U.S. workers to get jobs.

[lalaji]

Oh Law Firm Update:

01/31/2012: Irish Lobbyist Anxious to See Irish E-3 Visa Bill Coming on the Senate Floor This Week

As the showdown is inching close to the floor of the Senate, Irish community is anxious to see the fruit of their efforts soon. Read on and on and on.


Campaigners hope for progress on US visa Bill

IRISH CAMPAIGNERS for immigration reform in the US say they hope to soon see progress on a visa Bill which, if passed, would allow up to 10,000 Irish nationals annually to work in the US for two years.

This month members of the Irish Lobby for Immigration Reform (ILIR) met at the White House with representatives from President Barack Obama’s domestic policy council, the state department and the department of homeland security to discuss support for the E3 visa Bill which was introduced in the Senate by New York senator Charles Schumer last December.

The campaigners are seeking a statement of support for the Bill from the White House given that the Obama administration supported a recent Bill that would allow other ethnic groups, including Chinese, Indians and Hispanics, to obtain extra green cards.

The E3 Bill currently has the support of just over 50 senators but still lacks endorsement from Republicans.

Campaigners including the ILIR are calling on members of the Irish community to ask Republican senators for support.

“The meeting at the White House was very positive and encouraging,” said Irish Lobby for Immigration Reform president Ciaran Staunton.

“We’re hoping to see movement on this within the next week.”

Mr Staunton said he had discussed the latest developments with Taoiseach Enda Kenny at the weekend.

Under the Bill, those obtaining an E3 visa would be able to enter the US legally to work for two years on a non-immigrant visa. The two-year visa could be extended indefinitely.

The White House meeting also featured discussions on the issue of visa waivers should the Bill, or a version of it, become law.

The proposed legislation would allow for undocumented people to apply for the visas.

However, they would require a waiver in order to be exempt from a three or 10-year ban from the US which all undocumented people face when they leave the country and attempt to re-enter.

[jackbrown_890]

Oh Law Firm Update:

01/31/2012: Irish Lobbyist Anxious to See Irish E-3 Visa Bill Coming on the Senate Floor This Week

As the showdown is inching close to the floor of the Senate, Irish community is anxious to see the fruit of their efforts soon. Read on and on and on.


.................................................. .................................................. .................................................. ..............
the country and attempt to re-enter.

Lalaji,
It is really good news.

(this is just my opinion) The only thing concerns me right now is not enough republican support to pass the bill with E3. I have no problem with E3. I welcome any efforts from our Irish brothers and sisters and i am glad they are helping us but i hope their lobbying/advocacy will get enough republican votes to include E3. Also if E3 is added, how will we push it in the House again with E3 where Republicans have majority..(personally ).I would be happy to work with Irish (and other groups) have them join our blog and start a new thread to discuss the issues with them and help them push E3 with other immigration reforms. But right now 3012 to has bipartisan support (except grASSley) and i would like them to leave it alone.
Now from political standpoint of view and in reality - i don't see it happening (stand alone 3012). The E3 and other amendments will be added since Dems have majority in senate so they will try to get more stuff done with this bill as they have a leverage to negotiate.
Lets see what happens in senate this week or next week.

Also, we all are putting efforts in advocacy (i mean Chinese, Indians, Irish, Jewish,,,etc..) but for some reason it looks like we are not collaborating. The question is, how do we start a dialogue with each other and have more unified and strong advocacy efforts...
But i am really glad to see

[mniwas]

So what happens if the E3 bill (HR3012 + Irish) is passed in the senate?
My assumptions:
Bill passes senate.
House does not support the bill.
My guess is: The bill will have to go to joint committee. Where they will say the common factor is HR3012 has passed both houses and it should become a law. So the committee strips out the Irish provision and the HR3012 becomes the law.

Gurus.... is this realistic expectation? I am not against Irish... but just in case house does not support Irish clause... is this realistic path for HR3012.?

[jackbrown_890]

So what happens if the E3 bill (HR3012 + Irish) is passed in the senate?
My assumptions: .................................................. ........................................... is this realistic path for HR3012.?

My earlier post was kinda personal opinion...
to answer your questions:...
Bill passes senate
not for sure yet, except Brown non other republican i know has supported E3 publicly,, some of them do behind the doors but we won't find out till vote,,
House does not support the bill.
My guess is: The bill will have to go to joint committee. yes
Where they will say the common factor is HR3012 has passed both houses and it should become a law. nothing clear about that yet
So the committee strips out the Irish provision and the HR3012 becomes the law. that can happen but we are not sure since everything has been happening right now not public (except what Irish are saying)

Gurus.... is this realistic expectation? I am not against Irish... but just in case house does not support Irish clause... is this realistic path for HR3012.?
in my opinion it is not d idealistic situation for 3012. but the way Irish group are putting out the statements it looks like they r confident about 3012 + E3 in the Senate..

[immitime]

The Proof is in the pudding, When a bill is placed on the calender by invoking rule XIV, that means majority of Senators are intersted in that bill. only hindrance is GrassUncle for avoiding fillibuster we may need to wait for sometime for the cloture motion, that is abouti it. No point in mixing Irish E3 issue with H.R.3012 (again dog seeing fire hydrant that is the E3 bill) E3 amnesty for illegals are not going to go through in this Senate and political conditions, that is visible. Especially when the news is from the lawyer site who is infamous to mix his color of mind with all the news to increase his website traffic. Better we conitune to sent personal letter to our Senators and make them aware each day.

[gcq]

IMO Irish group is the most naive among immigrant advocacy groups. When one bill got some traction ( HR 3012), they think it is easy to push any bill through including E3. They are not aware of the hard work that has gone into bringing up HR 3012. Getting a bill introduced in the house/senate vs seeing it to the president's desk are two different things.

[Kanmani]

S.1983 has to go through Senate Judiciary committee in which 'G' uncle ( grandpa) is the ranking member already holding our 3012 .

[manubhai]

Just a reminder:

If you are interested in being on the conference call which is part of the response to the petition concerning "Foreign graduates with Advanced US Degrees"... please check the following thread and RSVP.

The call is tomorrow, February 1, at 1:30 PM EST.

Link to thread: http://www.qesehmk.org/forums/showthread.php?659-White-House-response-to-petition-for-GC-for-advanced-degree-holders

Disclaimer: Not sure WHAT you/we will gain by spending time on this call. Hopefully, it will be more than some usual political BS.

[kd2008]

http://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/uploads/startup_america_legislative_agenda.pdf


· Eliminate Country-Specific Caps: The President is calling for a balanced approach to eliminate country-specific caps for certain immigrant visa categories to attract more high skilled foreign workers, including entrepreneurs.


It is great that the President has come out in the open with the support.

[jackbrown_890]

Interesting Release from WhiteHouse today:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2012/01/31/one-year-anniversary-startup-america-initiative-president-obama-sends-st
I hope this will help move 3012 in d senate a little:

Relieving the backlog of immigrant visas: As put forward in his Blueprint for Building a 21st Century Immigration System, the President is proposing to:

o Eliminate Country-Specific Caps: The President is calling for a balanced approach to eliminate country-specific caps for certain immigrant visa categories to attract more high skilled foreign workers, including entrepreneurs.

In response to the President’s call for action on these issues last September, there has been growing bipartisan support for components of the President’s agenda, and the Administration looks forward to working with Congress to pass legislation without delay.

[immitime]

Interesting Release from WhiteHouse today:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2012/01/31/one-year-anniversary-startup-america-initiative-president-obama-sends-st
I hope this will help move 3012 in d senate a little:

Relieving the backlog of immigrant visas: As put forward in his Blueprint for Building a 21st Century Immigration System, the President is proposing to:

o Eliminate Country-Specific Caps: The President is calling for a balanced approach to eliminate country-specific caps for certain immigrant visa categories to attract more high skilled foreign workers, including entrepreneurs.

In response to the President’s call for action on these issues last September, there has been growing bipartisan support for components of the President’s agenda, and the Administration looks forward to working with Congress to pass legislation without delay.

This is all because of election year! the same could have done as administrative fix (just an executive order will do this without a bill and this stuff is non-controversial too) on second year of his tenure. Again Hoping for the best. I see the politics behind it. a Reublican bill basically having overwhelming support. so now some credit needed to WH because Elections are round the corner.:D

[mesan123]

let anyone take the credit....for us waiting for GC....what ever way it is ....if this bill passes, it is a great relief


This is all because of election year! the same could have done as administrative fix (just an executive order will do this without a bill and this stuff is non-controversial too) on second year of his tenure. Again Hoping for the best. I see the politics behind it. a Reublican bill basically having overwhelming support. so now some credit needed to WH because Elections are round the corner.:D

[pakkpk]

I think all is set and secure to pass HR 3012 in a week or two. Mr. President and democrats want to take credit of passing bipartisan bill. Anyway, as they play politics our stakes are very high. Just support who vote yes to the bill or work against who vote no.

[immitime]

let anyone take the credit....for us waiting for GC....what ever way it is ....if this bill passes, it is a great relief

I would rather say, This bill will pass, and it is going to be a great relief for lot of families who are EB immigrants

[imdeng]

This is a VERY VERY POSITIVE development. This essentially means that Democrats are willing to push this forward. We are heading towards a cloture motion unless GhasUncle removes his hold before that. Just for reference, Jason Chaffez has become pretty big in Republican Party now - I saw several news items about him being active in the Florida primary.

I believe Republicans will force GhasUncle to remove his hold. President is going to run on a do-nothing-congress theme and republican obstruction to a republican bill that has over 95% support in the House as well as President's support is going to look really bad. Next couple weeks will make everything clear.


Interesting Release from WhiteHouse today:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2012/01/31/one-year-anniversary-startup-america-initiative-president-obama-sends-st
I hope this will help move 3012 in d senate a little:

Relieving the backlog of immigrant visas: As put forward in his Blueprint for Building a 21st Century Immigration System, the President is proposing to:

o Eliminate Country-Specific Caps: The President is calling for a balanced approach to eliminate country-specific caps for certain immigrant visa categories to attract more high skilled foreign workers, including entrepreneurs.

In response to the President’s call for action on these issues last September, there has been growing bipartisan support for components of the President’s agenda, and the Administration looks forward to working with Congress to pass legislation without delay.

[idiotic]

watch out for AGREE act S.1866

http://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/uploads/startup_america_legislative_agenda.pdf

[lalaji]

Update from OH Law Firm:

01/31/2012: Sponsors of AGREE Act, S. 1866, Hails President's START UP American Legislative Agenda

On November 15, 2011, this bi-partisan bill was introduced in the Senate. The Title III of this bill proposed the text of the House bill, H.R. 3012. After the H.R. 3012 was introduced in the House and in progress, Senator Mike Lee of Utah who was one of the 11 co-sponsors of the S. 1866 bill introduced a separate bill in the Senate as a companion bill of H.R. 3012. Guess what. Another two co-sponsors of the S. 1866 bill introduced separate bills in the Senate. Senator Chuck Schumer of New York introduced S. 1983 combining the text of H.R. 3012 and Irish E-3 visa, while Senator Scott Brown of Massachusetts introduced the Irish E-3 visa bill as a separate stand-alone legislative bill. Accordingly, these three Senators have more or less long history of supporting H.R. 3012 bill texts.
Now, Senator from Delaware, Christopher Coons, who was a sponsor of S. 1866, comes forward and releases a news on January 31, 2012 hailing Obama initiatives including the Senator's initial proposal in S. 1866, AGREE Act. The co-sponsors of the AGREE Act were as follows:
Sen Rubio, Marco [FL]
Sen Gillibrand, Kirsten E. [NY]
Sen Blunt, Roy [MO]
Sen Casey, Robert P., Jr. [PA]
Sen Begich, Mark [AK]
Sen Wicker, Roger F. [MS]
Sen Lee, Mike [UT]
Sen Schumer, Charles E. [NY]
Sen Risch, James E. [ID]
Sen Brown, Scott P. [MA]
Sen Boozman, John [AR]
Please note in the co-sponsors list that Hispanic caucus rising star Tea-Party Senator Marco Rubio even supported the bill!

[gs1968]

There have been 2 additional co-sponsors for Sen.Schumer's Bill S.1983 added yesterday.These are democratic senators Coons and Harkin. However no republican cosponsors yet for this Bill.I just found this interesting as Sen.Harkin's fellow Senator from IA has placed the hold on HR 3012.

[mesan123]

Attonery Ron's take on immgration bills...how these parties are actings...


While we can always hope for members of Congress to see reason, the reality is that they (and the President) are pursuing their own political agendas. I think that the President wants to raise immigration issues at ever opportunity because he knows that the Republican response will always be "no." Things may change a bit in the months ahead as primary election season winds down.

Up until now, it has been possible for an extreme right wing candidate to get into a primary and challenge a solidly conservative Republican over an issue like a vote for an immigration provision. Recall that two years ago, Senator Bennett of Utah, one of the most conservative members of the Senate, was defeated in a primary because he wasn't conservative enough. Sen. Bennett had taken some common sense positions on immigration and those votes went a long way toward defeating him in the primary (Republican voter only, in his case) election. That lesson was not lost on other Republican incumbents.

In the 2010 election, about one-third of the Tea Party endorsed candidates won election to Congress. They have had a major impact on the legislative agenda, particular with respect to immigration. They have also made some colossal political blunders along the way and their influence has slipped considerably. I don't think that they are viewed as the threat that they once were. After all, if they had serious clout within the Republican party, would Romney be the front runner for the nomination?

With this in mind, we may see more moderate minded Republican members of Congress willing to vote their conscience on immigration issues. This does not mean that they are suddenly going to embrace an amnesty bill, but I think that there is a good chance that they might be willing to consider sensible legal immigration reform.

The Republican presidential contest has pushed the image of that party far to the right. Romney is the only candidate without solid conservative credentials and he is doing everything possible to paint himself as a conservative - at least until he gets the nomination. We are already hearing from Republican strategists that the party has to take a more moderate tone on immigration or risk a debacle in November.

Much has been written about the Latino vote and its growing influence in American politics. Personally, most Latinos that I know are social conservatives. At the same time, they genuinely resent being demonized as a group by nutjobs on the right. This is one of the things that scares the hell out of Republican strategists. Something that is overlooked, however, is the growing group of naturalized citizens and their U.S. born children. The anti-immigration xenophobes have done an excellent job of alienating them as well. These folks, for the most part, are highly motivated to not just vote, but also contribute to campaigns. Again, for the most part, recent immigrants tend to be social conservatives. With their extreme rhetoric, however, Republicans have driven them into the arms of their opposition, at least for now. After all, who wants to vote for someone who makes a living calling you a parasite?

For all of these reasons, I think that the Republicans are going to have to undertake a serious effort to make peace with Latinos specifically, and all immigrants generally. If they don't, they will cease to be a viable political party in ten years. The lesson of the FDR coalition, built in the 1930s, has not been lost on Republicans. Once you let a group bond with the other party, you have pretty much lost them for two or three generations. Republicans are at that crossroads right now. Unless they do something soon, they are going to lose key voting blocks for a long time.

With this in mind, I think that we will see Congressional Republicans make an effort to find legal immigration reform legislation that they can support and get it passed before the November election. At that point, the question becomes will the Democrats let them? I'm sure the Democrats will do everything in their power to prevent the Republicans from trying to heal this breach.

In the end, no one is a good guy here. It all comes down to naked political advantage.

[immitime]

How President Obama Can Erase Immigrant Visa Backlogs

The only valid test of leadership is the ability to lead, and lead vigorously.”[1]

As part of his emerging re-election strategy, President Obama has issued a series of executive orders designed to take action on serious national problems without support from the Congress.[2] In each case, the President has justified his actions with the rallying cry of “We Can’t Wait!” The press has taken note of this renewed executive vigor and the President’s poll numbers have begun to rise a bit as Americans are reminded once again of how powerful a bully pulpit the Presidency can be when its resources are fully engaged. One wonders if the same initiative could not produce equally dramatic results in the immigration arena. What if, for example, the President issued an executive decree that henceforth derivative family members would no longer be counted against the immigrant visa quotas, both family and employment-based? That single stroke of the pen would revolutionize United States immigration policy and, at long last, restore equilibrium to our imbalanced immigration system.

Read Further.

http://www.ilw.com/articles/2012,0201-endelman.shtm

Out of an abundance of caution, and to allow full opportunity for legislative consideration, the President should defer any executive action until Congress has had an opportunity to amend the bill in this fashion. But patience, while a virtue, is not without limit. Should the Congress not act, the need for the President to step forward remains. You are perfectly correct Mr. President- we cannot wait. As the Great Rabbi Hillel asked:” If not now, when?”

[lalaji]

Schumer on E3 TODAY:

http://www.irishcentral.com/news/New-move-means-Irish-E3-visa-bill-now-likely-to-pass-senate-138470709.html

[lalaji]

As per Irish central based on above link key poits are

1. Undocumented removed
2. Support 53 democrats+8 Rep already in line to break the filibuster.
3. Will go to House for approval and will get passed

[kd2008]

Schumer on E3 TODAY:

http://www.irishcentral.com/news/New-move-means-Irish-E3-visa-bill-now-likely-to-pass-senate-138470709.html

In some ways I am disappointed that HR 3012's purity and sincerity will be lost if this bill passes and in other ways I am glad that HR 3012 lives on through this bill

[vgraj1]

Hi,

In case the bill passes and signed by the President with an effective date of April 1, 2012, what will be the combined PD for EB2 in April visa bulletin?

[kd2008]

Hi,

In case the bill passes and signed by the President with an effective date of April 1, 2012, what will be the combined PD for EB2 in April visa bulletin?

Hold your horses! While all of us are impatient and want to know what will happen, nobody knows. Rest assured, it will impact positively if it passes.

[vizcard]

Hi,

In case the bill passes and signed by the President with an effective date of April 1, 2012, what will be the combined PD for EB2 in April visa bulletin?

Sept 1, 2007

[mesan123]

if the bill passes, For EB2 it will be sept 1 2007, i dont think so....how did you come up with that date....can you please explain vizcard( i am not being sarcastic....but was not undersanding why you choose sept 1 2007)


Sept 1, 2007

[vizcard]

if the bill passes, For EB2 it will be sept 1 2007, i dont think so....how did you come up with that date....can you please explain vizcard( i am not being sarcastic....but was not undersanding why you choose sept 1 2007)

theres no way to tell where things will land ... the bill hasnt even passed. so forget about calculations.

[lalaji]

SCHUMER BILL ON HOLD:

http://www.irishcentral.com/news/GOP-Senator-Charles-Grassley-puts-a-hold-on-E3-immigration-bill-for-the-Irish-138556224.html

[Pundit Arjun]

This has been mentioned at the Oh law firm's site(http://www.immigration-law.com/Canada.html) too :

02/02/2012: Unanimous Consent Sought for H.R. 3012 in the Senate

Report indicates that the chance for passage of H.R. 3012 in the Senate has turned more promising by attaching Irish E-3 visa provision to the pending H.R. 3012 which is likely to come on the floor in the near future. Apparently, Senator Chuck Schumer is pushing for passage of H.R. 3012, as amended, attaching E-3 visa provision to the bill and pass the bill on the Senate floor in the form of 'unanimous' consent. This is a new development and the supporters of H.R. 3012 and Irish community are hopeful for the passage of the bill soon. The unanswered question is which Irish bill will be attached as amendment. If it is Schumer's initial proposal which includes undocumented Irish relief provision, H.R. 3012, as amended, is likely to face some challenges in the House, when the bill is returned to the House. If the amendment is Sen. Scott Brown bill that does not include undocumented Irish relief provision, the future for H.R. 3012 will be indeed promising even in the House.


SCHUMER BILL ON HOLD:

http://www.irishcentral.com/news/GOP-Senator-Charles-Grassley-puts-a-hold-on-E3-immigration-bill-for-the-Irish-138556224.html

[kkruna]

H.R. 3012 looks like becoming a prospect better than a week back (news about its amalgamation with Irish E-3). Given this chance, and the fact that USCIS has been slower than required for comfort to CO, does a highly aggressive movement of dates for EB2 become a possiblity for March visa bulletin?

Gurus can advise if the dates might already be signed, stamped and sealed.

[Jonty Rhodes]

H.R. 3012 looks like becoming a prospect better than a week back (news about its amalgamation with Irish E-3). Given this chance, and the fact that USCIS has been slower than required for comfort to CO, does a highly aggressive movement of dates for EB2 become a possiblity for March visa bulletin?

Gurus can advise if the dates might already be signed, stamped and sealed.

I am not sure about aggressive EB2 movement but regarding the prospects of HR 3012, Senator Grassley has again put a hold on the new Irish bill for E-3 visa with added HR 3012 text which was moved by Senator Schumer today. This hold is in addition to the his existing hold on the original HR 3012 in Senate. What a Grasshole? :p

http://www.irishcentral.com/news/GOP-Senator-Charles-Grassley-puts-a-hold-on-E3-immigration-bill-for-the-Irish-138556224.html

[just_curious]

I am not sure about aggressive EB2 movement but regarding the prospects of HR 3012, Senator Grassley has again put a hold on the new Irish bill for E-3 visa with added HR 3012 text which was moved by Senator Schumer today. This hold is in addition to the his existing hold on the original HR 3012 in Senate. What a Grasshole? :p

http://www.irishcentral.com/news/GOP-Senator-Charles-Grassley-puts-a-hold-on-E3-immigration-bill-for-the-Irish-138556224.html

When his intentions are true, his execution is pathetic....

[immitime]

GhasUncle puts hold on E3 bill too!

http://www.irishcentral.com/news/GOP-Senator-Charles-Grassley-puts-a-hold-on-E3-immigration-bill-for-the-Irish-138556224.html#ixzz1lElk1Z2f

Interesting stuff is below


It is believed up to eight Republicans will sign on led by Senator Scott Brown of Massachusetts, which would give the bill a filibuster-proof majority in the senate. Senator Susan Collins of Maine signaled her support on Wednesday

The Grassley hold was not unexpected, as he had made his intentions clear when the bill was first moved to the senate after easily passing the house, though the Irish visa proposal was not part of the original House bill



Read more: http://www.irishcentral.com/news/GOP-Senator-Charles-Grassley-puts-a-hold-on-E3-immigration-bill-for-the-Irish-138556224.html#ixzz1lEqxpzzx

[jackbrown_890]

SCHUMER BILL ON HOLD:

http://www.irishcentral.com/news/GOP-Senator-Charles-Grassley-puts-a-hold-on-E3-immigration-bill-for-the-Irish-138556224.html

I don't know if there is any new hold on any bill or atleast i can't find any official news on E3,,,,IrishCentral is probably talking about Hold on 3012 and Grassley's hold on that bill and Schumer wanting add E3 to 3012 and bring it up for vote. the good news is if it is true, Collins has publicly supported the bill..(was expected at some point, she would do dat)
And if Irish Central is correct and they have 8 republican votes, we shall definitely see activity on this bill in Senate soon..

[vizcard]

If the amended bill DOES go through the Senate, it has to go back to the House. So I wouldn't get hopes too high just yet.

[immitime]

If the amended bill DOES go through the Senate, it has to go back to the House. So I wouldn't get hopes too high just yet.

Irish Central website wants to equate H.R.3012= E3 bill. that may not be possible at all. No official statments of amendments or Bill taking to the Senate floor yet, eventhough 3012 is in the top 10 priorities. We need to wait and see what happens. Irish Central is like OH law firm,

[kd2008]

I would like to urge everybody to please continue to talk about HR 3012 to your friends and associates. Please do not assume that they know about it. Please keep reaching out to Senators, asking for their support.

Try to connect dots and reach various community organizations and make them aware of HR 3012, ex: various ethnic associations for various regions in India, various associations for professionals of Indian-origin (ex. Association of American Physicians of Indian-origin, etc), cricket leagues, sports leagues, festivals, temples, music concerts etc.

Just a little initiative on your part to speak up will go a long distance.

Thanks!

[TorreyPines]

For me it's new, so posting for others who might not be aware of. The below website is updated instantly with floor proceedings.

http://democrats.senate.gov/2012/xx/xx/

For feb 2 - http://democrats.senate.gov/2012/02/02/

Right now S.2038 bill is sucking up entire senate's time.

[girish989]

For me it's new, so posting for others who might not be aware of. The below website is updated instantly with floor proceedings.

http://democrats.senate.gov/2012/xx/xx/

For feb 2 - http://democrats.senate.gov/2012/02/02/

Right now S.2038 bill is sucking up entire senate's time.

Nothing about about our bill on Monday's schedule either, this sucks-

http://democrats.senate.gov/2012/02/02/senate-floor-schedule-for-monday-february-6-2012/

[gs1968]

To girish989
And most likely not on Tuesday either.The senate leaders would have filed for cloture today to allow for the intervening Legislative day on Monday for amendments to be filed.
We will have to wait and see

[kd2008]

Please let us all be patient. A few pages back I expressed my opinion that it will be a while before we see substantial and public progress on the bill. We all knew about the house vote six days before the actual event. And likely, that will be the case here too.

[idiotic]

Nothing about about our bill on Monday's schedule either, this sucks-

http://democrats.senate.gov/2012/02/02/senate-floor-schedule-for-monday-february-6-2012/


Please be patient. There are lot of negotiations and backdoor work needs to go on to get the required support before floor time is taken to bring up this bill or variant of this. Payroll tax cut extension needs to be passed before Feb end also. That is a good example for backdoor negotiations on a bill before it comes up on the floor.

[TorreyPines]

Please be patient. There are lot of negotiations and backdoor work needs to go on to get the required support before floor time is taken to bring up this bill or variant of this. Payroll tax cut extension needs to be passed before Feb end also. That is a good example for backdoor negotiations on a bill before it comes up on the floor.

Just my opinion: At some point, HR 3012 and Irish E3 contradict each other and shouldn't be in the same bill. I am okay if the bill takes one or two more months but get rid of the Irish baggage. Asking for fairness and being okay with 10k visas to a particular country is plain weird.

[imdeng]

Question to everyone reading this forum: Have you made a call to your Senator's office in 2012? Have you written a letter (not email) to your Senators in 2012? If you have not - then please fulfill your responsibility and do so. Writing a letter takes 10 mins and one first class postage stamp - there is no excuse for you to not do it. This one action will help HR-3012's chances more than anything else you can do.

[mniwas]

Shusterman.com is also saying the same thing as the OH law firm.... with Irish provision added HR3012 is likely to pass senate...
Shusterman has provided this link to Irish website... http://www.irishcentral.com/news/New-move-means-Irish-E3-visa-bill-now-likely-to-pass-senate-138470709.html

A note of caution is that: I have been following Shusterman newsletters for a very long time... he is always very optimistic... very often I have seen that his predictions/hopes don't come true... Hopefully this time he will be right.

Somewhere else I read that in 1990s congress acted when the backlog 3.5 yrs.... in 2000 they acted when the backlog was about 6 years long... this time it is already about 10 years long for the EB3 folks and this is with no relief in sight.... I don't understand how... but some people are predicting that EB3 people who are applying in 2012 have a 70 year wait if the congress does not do anything.

[gcq]

Irish E3 added to HR 3012 means it will have to go back to house for a vote again. HR 3012 + E3 may not survive a house vote. Adding E3 to HR 3012 is like killing HR 3012. HR 3012 has to pass by itself.

BTW none of these lawyers have any clue as to HR 3012's status. They are speculating.

[skpanda]

I have not read anywhere that Irish E3 is getting added to HR 3012. I have been reading that Irish E3 will be added to the 'Fairness to high skilled...' which is the description for HR 3012. However they never reference HR 3012.

I think the bill S1983 (HR 3012 + Irish E3) will go for a vote in Senate and NOT HR 3012. HR 3012 will just sit there in Senate with a hold by Senator Grassley waiting on the fate of S1983 in Senate and House. If S1983 passes both, then HR 3012 can be trashed. If it does not pass both, then HR 3012 can be pursued further.

Above is just my hunch.. i have no clue how things work in Washington DC.

[gs1968]

To skpanda
Here is the latest news
http://www.irishcentral.com/news/GOP-Senator-Scott-Brown-now-the-key-figure-in-Irish-E3-visa-battle-138769794.html

[jackbrown_890]

Thanks gs1968
It is interesting Irish Lobbyists have been good at providing updates and keeping everyone in d loop...i wish other 3012 lobbyist would update people on what s going on...
Lets see how things go this week in d senate.

[kd2008]

My sources in the know tell me, the bill limbo may be resolved one way or the other in next couple of weeks. NO indication if positively or negatively, w/ or w/o the E-3 amendment or some other compromise. Keep your fingers crossed.

Please, please, please, call, email, contact your Senators now and ask them to support HR 3012!!!!

[gcq]

To skpanda
Here is the latest news
http://www.irishcentral.com/news/GOP-Senator-Scott-Brown-now-the-key-figure-in-Irish-E3-visa-battle-138769794.html
Read all Irish central news with "lot" of salt. If they knew how lobbying works in DC and if they had enough clout, they wouldn't have waited for HR 3012 to pass in house to bring up E3. Their need for a bill like HR 3012 to push their E3 tells a lot about their clout.

[kd2008]

Senator's List

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AoOtE1vkD8n6dDRRZzU3dkE1QjM3VS1JeHZhejN6b 1E#gid=0

Please, please, contact your Senators now!!!

PS: Only Senators from your state of residence!

[imdeng]

Thanks for posting this KD. I would urge everybody to hand write a letter and send to the office address of your Senators. This has more impact than anything else. Senator's office will usually send you a hard copy reply too. You can write one letter every month.

Senator's List

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AoOtE1vkD8n6dDRRZzU3dkE1QjM3VS1JeHZhejN6b 1E#gid=0

Please, please, contact your Senators now!!!

PS: Only Senators from your state of residence!

[gs1968]

No sign of movement yet on any of the Bills.Tomorrow the Senate hopes to start consideration of the surface transportation Bill but nothing decided yet.We have to wait and see.

[lalaji]

From Irish Emigrant:


E-3 momentum builds despite Grassley stalling

By Brian Fitzpatrick


Senator Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), whose stalling of HR3012 has also placed Irish visa efforts on hold.Momentum has built up behind the proposed E-3 visa which would allow 10,000 Irish per annum to come and work legally in the US, after Senator Charles Schumer (D-New York) Tuesday hotlined Bill S.1983 in the Senate, officially attaching it to Bipartisan Bill HR3012, the Fairness for High-Skilled Immigrants Act.

However, Senator Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), is for now continuing to block HR3012, as he did when it passed the House 389-15 in November, and has placed the legislation on hold before it can go before the Senate. Bills may be stalled by any senator, and when Grassley may relent remains unclear. His issue is thought to be solely with HR3012 and not the Irish E-3, and he is currently negotiating with the bill’s supporters on broader reforms he has long sought for employer-sponsored visas, such as the H1B.

“I have concerns about the impact of this bill on future immigration flows, and am concerned that it does nothing to better protect Americans at home who seek high-skilled jobs during this time of record-high unemployment,” Grassley said after HR3012 initially passed the House.

HR3012 is aimed at eliminating country-based caps on the number of employment visas issued annually, and boosting similar limits for immigrants sponsored by a spouse or relative currently in the US. It has been heavily supported by US high-tech companies keen to resolve the huge backlogs they face when trying to secure visas for skilled workers from abroad, particularly India and China. Ireland has an ally in these high-tech lobbyists, who are simply keen to see their own problems solved and have to date raised no objections to any Irish-specific bill.

Amendments

Co-sponsored by Senator Pat Leahy (D-Vermont) and Senator Richard Durbin (D-Illinois), Schumer’s bill – first devised as a suggested set of amendments to HR3012 - was introduced after the initial Grassley delay, and would create a legal channel for immigration for those still in Ireland.

The amendments asked for are modeled on the Australian reciprocal E-3 visa, which requires that applicants have a job offer for a specialty occupation in the US. The visas are for two years and can be renewed; however, they are temporary non-immigrant work visas, not green cards. The E-3 category already includes provisions for admission of dependents and employment authorization for spouses.

Senator Schumer had initially included concessions for the undocumented which would have allowed them to return home and re-apply for the new visas, without being subject to barring orders from the US. However, lobbying efforts on these waivers are understood to have come up against a Republican brick wall, and in a move that will dismay many in the undocumented community, these have now been removed in the hope that so-called administrative waivers can be introduced at a later date, if the bill is passed.

The separate, standalone Irish Immigration Reform and Encouragement (IRE) Act (S.2005), introduced before Christmas by Senator Scott Brown (R-Massachusetts) and co-sponsored by Senator Mark Kirk (R-Illinois), aims to add the Irish citizens directly to the E-3 visa program.

It would provide the same number of visas as the Schumer bill, but as it never contained any waivers for the undocumented, it is expected that those inclined to co-sign the Brown bill will now back the more advanced Schumer bill, as they are now effectively identical.

Support

Some 53 Democratic Senators have pledged support to the Schumer bill so far, with as many as eight Republicans – including Brown - said to be in favor. If this is the case, it would mean the bill would hit the crucial filibuster-proof number. Irish efforts received another boost of late when Illinois Congressman Luis Gutiérrez, considered one of the strongest voices on immigration reform in the country, indicated he will weigh in behind the push.

Meetings have been held on Capitol Hill over the past few weeks between the Irish Embassy, representatives of Irish Lobby for Immigration Reform (ILIR) and the Chicago Celts for Immigration Reform, and the staffers of numerous senators, in the hope of gaining support across party lines. Most recently, efforts have focused on gaining the crucial backing of Senate minority leader Mitch McConnell (R-Kentucky).

Efforts have also focused on securing a statement of support from the Obama administration. Reciprocity on the E-3 visas has been guaranteed by the Irish government, although this is almost a moot point given the employment situation there.

If a solution to Grassley’s hold can be found, should the bill pass the Senate it will return to the House for final approval, but this is considered almost a fait accompli, given the majority with which HR3012 has already passed.

Benefits

“There is nothing unusual about the extension of particular immigration benefits to a particular country,” the ILIR said in a circulated advocacy document, responding to the idea that no bill should benefit the Irish ahead of others.

“HR 3012 provides very specific assistance to four nationalities - Indians, Chinese born in the PRC, Filipinos and Mexicans, to the detriment of other groups.”

“The time is now to pass this common-sense bill,” Senator Schumer told Irish Central.

“The underlying bill passed the Republican House with overwhelming bi-partisan support – and the Irish E-3 visa also has support from both parties - so there is no reason not to pass this bill.”

This common sense approach was echoed by Billy Lawless of the Chicago Celts for Immigration Reform, who said that the effort has unified the Irish groups in a manner that is good to see.

“We’re really happy with how it’s going,” he told The Irish Emigrant. “The work put in by the likes of ILIR but also more unsung heroes like the Irish Apostolate and people like Dan Dennehy at the Ancient Order of Hibernians has been crucial. We’ve all come together and now we’re trying to get the two sides of the US political divide to come together, too.”

[gcq]

Interesting observations from that article

His issue is thought to be solely with HR3012 and not the Irish E-3, and he is currently negotiating with the bill’s supporters on broader reforms he has long sought for employer-sponsored visas, such as the H1B.
When it comes to the opposition, Irish like to think Grassley opposes HR 3012 component only.


If a solution to Grassley’s hold can be found, should the bill pass the Senate it will return to the House for final approval, but this is considered almost a fait accompli, given the majority with which HR3012 has already passed.
When it comes to support in house, Irish has no problem using the support HR 3012 gained in the house and speculating E3 component will get the same support in the house.

If both of these assumptions were correct, why wouldn't they introduce a standalone bill in house for E3 ( where they are sure to get overwhelming support) and move that bill to senate where they will not face a hurdle ( since Uncle G has opposition to HR 3012 component only) !

[vizcard]

I think its because HR3012 already has the press, popularity and support

[essenel]

My sources in the know tell me, the bill limbo may be resolved one way or the other in next couple of weeks. NO indication if positively or negatively, w/ or w/o the E-3 amendment or some other compromise. Keep your fingers crossed.

Please, please, please, call, email, contact your Senators now and ask them to support HR 3012!!!!

kd, care to shed a little bit more light on this? (Even just a tiny bit of light :) ). [By the way, not only did I contact my senators, I also visited one of my senators' office.]

[kd2008]

kd, care to shed a little bit more light on this? (Even just a tiny bit of light :) ). [By the way, not only did I contact my senators, I also visited one of my senators' office.]

Thank you. It is great that you visited the office. Please urge everybody you know to contact them and visit them to support the bill.

Politics can be a dirty game. Everybody wants their agenda to succeed, their amendments to succeed. So various lobbyists jockey for favors and advantages all the time. That is what makes everything uncertain until the very last moment. Nobody knows anything. That is where things stand right now. Nobody knows anything.

[idiotic]

demand data released.. checkout.. good news..

[psychedelicNerd]

demand data released.. checkout.. good news..

Good news for who?

[mesan123]

March bulletion is also out....dates moved till 1MAY2010

[imviswa]

Support from a republican..that sounds encouraging. Hope we get the required 60 votes

http://www.irishcentral.com/news/-Senator-Scott-Brown-says-Irish-E3-immigrant-visa-bill-is-about-to-pop-138938264.html

"The Republican Senator has said it is possible it will pass as soon as this week."

[essenel]

Thank you. It is great that you visited the office. Please urge everybody you know to contact them and visit them to support the bill.

Politics can be a dirty game. Everybody wants their agenda to succeed, their amendments to succeed. So various lobbyists jockey for favors and advantages all the time. That is what makes everything uncertain until the very last moment. Nobody knows anything. That is where things stand right now. Nobody knows anything.

kd, I understand.....

One more thing - if you already know that both your senators support the bill, should you still send out emails/calls?

[immitime]

Support from a republican..that sounds encouraging. Hope we get the required 60 votes

http://www.irishcentral.com/news/-Senator-Scott-Brown-says-Irish-E3-immigrant-visa-bill-is-about-to-pop-138938264.html

"The Republican Senator has said it is possible it will pass as soon as this week."

This is a kind of relief, but, If E-3 amendment is attached to H.R. 3012, it should go back to congress for voting again, in the house any thing can happen, even if this bill passes Senate with unanimous consent as they claim.

[manubhai]

kd, I understand.....

One more thing - if you already know that both your senators support the bill, should you still send out emails/calls?

essenel - The answer to your question is "Absolutely Yes". Till the time a senator's vote is not cast, he has the right to change his stance because of whatever new information is thrown his way.

As kd and imdeng have already pointed out, writing hand written letters has a huge impact. Not many people do this, esp. those who are involved in a group. People with individual issues might send handwritten letters, but group folks usually copy+paste+print the same content. If we write handwritten ones, we stand a better chance of getting noticed.

Again, making the 20 second calls is also hugely important.

[manubhai]

Content could be used from here or from imdeng's petition:

http://www.qesehmk.org/forums/showthread.php?284-Content-of-letter-or-petition-to-send-to-your-Senator-for-supporting-HR-3012

[lalaji]

Grassley letter to Obama on Feb 7th:

http://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/Article.cfm?customel_dataPageID_1502=38933

[essenel]

essenel - The answer to your question is "Absolutely Yes". Till the time a senator's vote is not cast, he has the right to change his stance because of whatever new information is thrown his way.

As kd and imdeng have already pointed out, writing hand written letters has a huge impact. Not many people do this, esp. those who are involved in a group. People with individual issues might send handwritten letters, but group folks usually copy+paste+print the same content. If we write handwritten ones, we stand a better chance of getting noticed.

Again, making the 20 second calls is also hugely important.

Manubhai, thanks for the info. I will make this an action item for myself to send letters and make the calls.

Another question - when we make the calls, should we be mentioning the senate version of the bill or HR 3012?

[gs1968]

To Essenel
Your information conflicts with these news stories
http://www.boston.com/Boston/politicalintelligence/2012/02/scott-brown-pushes-irish-immigration-bill/Lhhdp3dmq18sUJxZL5mnBN/index.html

and

http://www.irishcentral.com/news/-Senator-Scott-Brown-says-Irish-E3-immigrant-visa-bill-is-about-to-pop-138938264.html

I don't know which story to believe.On the one hand it appears like a deal is near while the letter from Sen.Grassley seems to suggest that his insistence on H-1b/L-1 reforms seems firm

Only time will tell!

[immitime]

To Essenel
Your information conflicts with these news stories
http://www.boston.com/Boston/politicalintelligence/2012/02/scott-brown-pushes-irish-immigration-bill/Lhhdp3dmq18sUJxZL5mnBN/index.html

and

http://www.irishcentral.com/news/-Senator-Scott-Brown-says-Irish-E3-immigrant-visa-bill-is-about-to-pop-138938264.html

I don't know which story to believe.On the one hand it appears like a deal is near while the letter from Sen.Grassley seems to suggest that his insistence on H-1b/L-1 reforms seems firm

Only time will tell!

Exactly, and the result of all these can be something different, and my friend unfortunately, that is called POLITRICKS! in a DEMOCRAZY. Praying and sending Hand written letters at least once in a week to Senators. Hope this will be a happy ending!:D

[gcq]

Sorry to quote an anti-immigrant, but can't help it


Roy Beck, president of NumbersUSA, a Washington-area group that favors curbing immigration, argues that the proposals like Brown’s are part of a pattern of discrimination, favoring immigrants from white, English-speaking nations.They’re basically upset because they don’t have the special privileges that they once had,” Beck said. “They have to share those privileges with Latinos and Africans and Asians.”

[lalaji]

Looks like either way we will come to know the climax of this episode(HR3012,E3...) in next 10days.

[essenel]

To Essenel
Your information conflicts with these news stories
http://www.boston.com/Boston/politicalintelligence/2012/02/scott-brown-pushes-irish-immigration-bill/Lhhdp3dmq18sUJxZL5mnBN/index.html

and

http://www.irishcentral.com/news/-Senator-Scott-Brown-says-Irish-E3-immigrant-visa-bill-is-about-to-pop-138938264.html

I don't know which story to believe.On the one hand it appears like a deal is near while the letter from Sen.Grassley seems to suggest that his insistence on H-1b/L-1 reforms seems firm

Only time will tell!

gs, which information are you talking about? In any case, it's all the more reason to write those letter and make those calls...

[manubhai]

Manubhai, thanks for the info. I will make this an action item for myself to send letters and make the calls.

Another question - when we make the calls, should we be mentioning the senate version of the bill or HR 3012?

I - or anyone on this forum - is not qualified to give you the absolute best answer for that. It all depends on whether THIS senator has heard more of 3012 or S1857 or the Irish bill from Schumer or Scott and what their individual stances are.

To pick one, I'd pick HR3012... simply because it passed the house and is supposedly/arguably "famous". I'm sure others will have different opinions.

I hope more people are emailing, writing, and calling. This includes those who've recently become current but wont be getting the GC soon purely because of country based quotas. Hopefully, the satisfaction of getting EAD+AP wont lull them into complacency and they'll still remember that these efforts directly help them just as much as those who aren't current yet.

[gs1968]

To Essenel
My apologies-I was actually replying to Lalaji's information on Senator Grassley's letter to the President

[feedmyback]

If we read Gr(ass)ley's letter to Obama, it is clear that he is more interested in his H1B amendments than the HR3012 and how that is harmful. I did not find anything that actually tells that HR3012 (its contents) causes a damage to the American workers. He is only explaining the case of one US electrical engineer and trying to get through his agenda by urging President. On the politricks side, I feel as things are cooking behind doors and senate is probably getting ready for the cloture, Ass uncle feels helpless and is trying to do everything possible in these conditions. That full letter sounds like a desperate but futile exercise to me.

Anyways hoping for the best and doing all action items without fail. Let the good things happen to all of us!!!!


Grassley letter to Obama on Feb 7th:

http://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/Article.cfm?customel_dataPageID_1502=38933

[mesan123]

update from OH law firm:

Boston Globe Reports Two Republican Senators, Scott Brown and Chuck Grassley, Actively Negotiating for Compromise Involving H.R. 3012 & Irish E-3 Visa

As reported earlier, Irish community has been pushing hard Senator Scott Brown of Masschusetts to persuade Sen. Chuck Grassley as fellow Republicans. The chip which is used by the Irish community is threat to the reelection chance for Sen. Brown in November in the Irish dominating State of Massachusetts, which is also considered a threat to the Republican party itself. Accordingly, Chuck Grassley should also feel pressure at this point. Details are not known as to the negotiation and compromise, but pressures are mounting at this time. Interesting to watch how the negotiation will unfold.

[gcq]

Uncle G won't care whether Senator Brown is re-elected or not. He does't care about anybody/anything else. If he cared about these, would he block a bill sponsor by house republicans ? All he cares about is his opportunity to bring focus on himself by blocking bills whether it is HR 3012, $1 coin bill or whatever that comes his way.

Guess what Brown will be negotiating ? H1B provisions as demanded by Grassley. That won't go anywhere either.