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

[lalaji]

Update from Hill: Planning to move this bill by today:

http://thehill.com/blogs/floor-action/senate/209515-bill-to-ease-irish-immigration-to-us-about-to-pop-in-the-senate-says-sen-brown

[psychedelicNerd]

Do we have a word on whether the bill would be standalone or would move along with H.R. 3012? The above article does not hint of H.R. 3012 anywhere.

[skpanda]

I thought Senator's browns bill was E3 without any relief to undocumented.

How does one become Citizen with an E3 visa? Either he does not know what he is talking about or we do not know the entire contents of the bill.

Note: E3 visa will allow 10,000 Irish citizens every year to move to USA if they have a job offer. It is given for 2 years and can be extended as many times as they want. Australia currently enjoys similar arrangement.



Update from Hill: Planning to move this bill by today:

http://thehill.com/blogs/floor-action/senate/209515-bill-to-ease-irish-immigration-to-us-about-to-pop-in-the-senate-says-sen-brown

[randomax]

It's quite ridiculous that there are special visa's for people from Ireland and Australia and there are people who make a big deal about immigrants from India/China/Mexico/etc. Talk of racism...

[kd2008]

Please pay no attention to news sources. They only report what is told to them and not what the actual negotiations are. The only source to trust is the Senate floor schedule.

[immitime]

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.

manubhai,

Satisfaction of getting EAD-AP only creating problems, eventhough more than 210,000 EAD holders on EB-3, they are using EAD/AP as Temp GC and getting the jobs using AC21 law and most of the EB-3 Indians don't bother about H.R.3012, who is on EAD. AP helps them to travel smoothly new H1Bs are too ignorant. !

[lalaji]

Oh Law Firm Update:

02/09/2012: Sen. Grassley's Pitch Against High Skilled Foreign Workers in his Letter to the President on 02/07/2012

It is indeed annoying to read this letter to the President. His pitch goes against the late initiatives of the Obama Administration to administratively fix in part the broken employment-based immigration system to attract and retain high skilled foreign workers, including employment authorization opportunity for the spouses of valuable foreign brain workers. For most of the nonimmigrant worker visas including L visa, J visa, and E visa, their accompanying spouses are given employment authorization if they want under the current DHS regulations. Then why should the DHS discriminate against the spouses of H-1B workers who play a critical role to sustain the competitive edge of this country in the global competition? Be real, Senator!

[Suva2001]

Is anything happening on HR-3012?

[imviswa]

Senate discussing S.1813 from the morning, so no sign of 3012 today as well :(

[chengisk]

Senate is done for the week (http://democrats.senate.gov/2012/02/09/no-further-roll-call-votes-9/)
They will reconvene on Tuesday (14th) and I see nothing on the schedule for 3012/3476/1857/1866/1983
(http://www.senate.gov/pagelayout/committees/b_three_sections_with_teasers/committee_hearings.htm)
:(

[gs1968]

To chengisk
The senate reconvenes on Monday February 13th but as you mentioned-there is no indication any of these Bills are under consideration

To SKPanda
The E-3 visa is an employment visa like the H-1 and L-1 Visa and can be converted into an employment-based Green Card if one finds a suitable sponsor. They can also convert to FB green cards based on family relationship/marriage etc. What he is implying is that the Irish Nationals do not have to overstay their visas illegally and can pursue a path to eventual US citizenship.Also the E-3 visa is a dual-intent visa like in the case of H-1B where the visas can continue to be renewed every 2 years even if the immigration proceedings are pending.

The language for the Irish E-3 is interesting.The educational requirements are not as high as the Australian E-3 and there is no indication that this is open only to specialty occupations.

[skpanda]

Not sure how confident you are about E3 being dual intent. My own cousin is Australian Citizen. He was here on E3. He had to change his visa to H1 and then apply for GC. He has mentioned to me that he had to move from E3 to H1.

He works for a large US company and at a very senior position. That would make me think that he along with his company attorney would have explore all options before moving to H1. If E3 --> GC while staying in US was possible, that would have been their first choice.

I will check with him on this again to understand about this and post here when i get a chance.



To chengisk
The senate reconvenes on Monday February 13th but as you mentioned-there is no indication any of these Bills are under consideration

To SKPanda
The E-3 visa is an employment visa like the H-1 and L-1 Visa and can be converted into an employment-based Green Card if one finds a suitable sponsor. They can also convert to FB green cards based on family relationship/marriage etc. What he is implying is that the Irish Nationals do not have to overstay their visas illegally and can pursue a path to eventual US citizenship.Also the E-3 visa is a dual-intent visa like in the case of H-1B where the visas can continue to be renewed every 2 years even if the immigration proceedings are pending.

The language for the Irish E-3 is interesting.The educational requirements are not as high as the Australian E-3 and there is no indication that this is open only to specialty occupations.

[gs1968]

To SKPanda
Thanks for the clarification.I would defer to your opinion since your information is more first-hand than mine.I was going by the Wikipedia information as below

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/E-3_visa

Some lawyer websites mention that after labor certification is approved one can return to Australia and pursue consular processing which seems to work. In any case in 2010 Australia received a total of 2512 green cards of which only 735 were EB.These numbers are too small to draw any conclusions. There is the letter of the Law and the USCIS interpretation guidelines of the law which can be two totally different things as all of us immigrants know very well by now.

Believe me-if the Irish lobby can pull this off,they will make sure that the E-3 is interpreted as dual-intent!

[lalaji]

Update from Oh Law Firm: (Denial of H1 & L1 stops new GC filers)

02/10/2012: Pending Irish Nego, a Day Gone by Without Any Action on H.R. 3012 in the Senate Yesterday

The Senate adjourned until 02/13/2012, Monday, with no scheduled debate on H.R. 3012. At this point, Irish E-3 lobby works as a double edge sword for H.R. 3012: A powerful ally as well as a bloc for the stand-alone H.R. 3012. If their negotiation with Senator Chuck Grassley is successful, the bill may even be passed very quickly in a unanimous consent matter without even vote. Depending on the result of the compromise, though, it may or may not face another hurdle when it goes back to the House or to the Senate-House conference process. As time passes, patience runs thin for the H.R. 3012 stakeholders.

02/09/2012: Report Indicates Unusual High Rates of RFE and Denial of H-1B and L-1 Petition in 2011

From 60% to 90% of L-1 petitions experienced either RFE or denial, according to this report. Astonishing!

[lalaji]

"]Interesting twist in Irish E3 bill:[/B]

http://www.irishcentral.com/news/Anti-immigrant-group-Numbers-USA-mobilizes-to-stop-Irish-visa-bill-139082249.html

[vishnu]

this helps increase EB1C spillover to EB2

[devi_pd]

Looks like the only way for HR3012 to pass is through is through unanimous consent in the senate. I don't think Reid wants to waste floor time by invoking cloture for HR3012.

The politics on 3012 are just disgusting. ** is not providing any updates. At least when the bill was in the house, we had something happening like the mark-up in the judiciary commitee and we knew well in advance when the bill coming to the floor. Senate is like a huge blackbox and things get revealed only the previous day.

[lalaji]

Update from irish central:

http://www.irishcentral.com/news/Irish-government-believes-Irish-E3-visa-bill-is-making-progress-139082949.html

[gs1968]

To Lalaji
I am confused by Irish Central news and was hoping somebody in the forum would explain better.I thought S.1983 was blocked due to the 3012 provisions or a lack of sufficient Republican sponsors to overcme filibuster or both Is he moving his standalone bill? Sen.Schumer has already removed the undocumented waiver provisions and if that was Sen.Grassley's objection then there is no reason to prolong the hold. There is a post earlier linking to IC where anti-immigrant organizations are already targeting this Bill. I think like any other cultural media-IC is only telling people what they would like to hear!

[lalaji]

Update from Oh Law Firm:

02/10/2012: Anti-Immigration Group Waking Up to Oppose Sen. Brown Bill

Irish media report indicates that the Numbers USA, one of the primary anti-immigration groups in the country, has started its campaign to oppose the Brown bill. Interesting enough, however, they are opposing Irish E-3 bill for seeking special favor for one individual ethnic group. Since Sen. Brown bill itself covers only Irish E-3 visa and not H.R. 3012, the anti-immigration group appears to target at his stand-alone Irish E-3 visa bill. This new development complicates the H.R. 3012 itself since the Irish attempted to attach their bill to H.R. 3012 through Sen. Schumer against such opposition from the other anti-immigration groups under the assumption that H.R. 3012 would give a better chance to pass in the Senate rather than the stand-alone Irish E-3 bill itself, and for the reasons, implicitly they might not want to see the stand-alone H-R. 3012 being taken up and passed in the Senate. What a mess!!

[mniwas]

Update from Oh Law Firm:

02/10/2012: Anti-Immigration Group Waking Up to Oppose Sen. Brown Bill



Gai Bhains pani mein >>> The buffalo went in the water <<<

[bhala5]

Intesrting News from OH Law Firm

According to Oh Law website:


==============
Yesterday, Congressman Howard Berman introduced in the House H.R.3992 to allow otherwise eligible Israeli nationals to receive E-2 nonimmigrant visas if similarly situated United States nationals are eligible for similar nonimmigrant status in Israel. A similar bill was introduced in the Senate, S.921 by Sens. Schumer, Kirk and Kyl on May 11, 2011. In the House, joining Mr. Berman as original co-sponsors are Rep. Lamar Smith (R-TX), Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-CA), Ranking Member of the Immigration Policy Subcommittee, and Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee.
==============


No doubt, this is a copy of Irish bill. Since it was introduced in May 2011 but didn't pass, definitely the proposers would like to use HR3012 as vehicle, just like what Irish did. And of course no one doubts the power of Jewish in United States . With powerful co-sponsor (Lamar Smith & Zoe Lofgren), Israel E-2 has great chance to bind with HR3012 when HR3012 is back to House with amendments. After that, another no doubt, the super-combination bill has to go back to Senate again due to Israel E-2 added.

I believe ** never expected such things:
1. Grassley's hard push for H1B reform and his firm hold
2. Irish's great power from Schumer/Leahy/Durbin to bind E-3 with HR3012
3. Another hidden powerful community, Jewish, is waking and attaching their bill

At the end, HR3012, which was described as "probably pass Congress in 2-3 months", becomes a super-combined immigration ball which is kicked between Senate and House, with more and more amendments added.

God bless immigrants!!!

[bhala5]

According to Oh Law website:


==============
Yesterday, Congressman Howard Berman introduced in the House H.R.3992 to allow otherwise eligible Israeli nationals to receive E-2 nonimmigrant visas if similarly situated United States nationals are eligible for similar nonimmigrant status in Israel. A similar bill was introduced in the Senate, S.921 by Sens. Schumer, Kirk and Kyl on May 11, 2011. In the House, joining Mr. Berman as original co-sponsors are Rep. Lamar Smith (R-TX), Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-CA), Ranking Member of the Immigration Policy Subcommittee, and Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee.
==============


No doubt, this is a copy of Irish bill. Since it was introduced in May 2011 but didn't pass, definitely the proposers would like to use HR3012 as vehicle, just like what Irish did. And of course no one doubts the power of Jewish in United States . With powerful co-sponsor (Lamar Smith & Zoe Lofgren), Israel E-2 has great chance to bind with HR3012 when HR3012 is back to House with amendments. After that, another no doubt, the super-combination bill has to go back to Senate again due to Israel E-2 added.

I believe ** never expected such things:
1. Grassley's hard push for H1B reform and his firm hold
2. Irish's great power from Schumer/Leahy/Durbin to bind E-3 with HR3012
3. Another hidden powerful community, Jewish, is waking and attaching their bill

At the end, HR3012, which was described as "probably pass Congress in 2-3 months", becomes a super-combined immigration ball which is kicked between Senate and House, with more and more amendments added.

God bless immigrants.

http://www.trackitt.com/usa-discussion-forums/i485-eb/906619873/israel-e-2-bill-introduced-probably-bond-wit/page/last_page

[gcq]

Where did you see HR 3012 attached to this bill ? In house there is no need to attach Israeli E2 to HR 3012. HR 3012 already cleared the house. We have enough speculators already !

Isn't it interesting that OH law firm always has "news" :-)

[Spectator]

No doubt, this is a copy of Irish bill.

Hardly. E-2 is a non-immigrant Investor Visa. The Irish Bill is for the E-3 visa.

[vickywac]

Shall we come to conclusion, based on the political climate and the recent developments that the HR 3012 is dead?
I am seriously considering to port EB2. Gurus please advice.

[imdeng]

If you have an opportunity to port then you should do that regardless of HR-3012. In my opinion, 3012 is not dead - it takes a while for the Senate to move. We can only do our part (Call Senators, Write to Senators) and let the process unfold.

Shall we come to conclusion, based on the political climate and the recent developments that the HR 3012 is dead?
I am seriously considering to port EB2. Gurus please advice.

[vizcard]

Shall we come to conclusion, based on the political climate and the recent developments that the HR 3012 is dead?
I am seriously considering to port EB2. Gurus please advice.


If you have an opportunity to port then you should do that regardless of HR-3012. In my opinion, 3012 is not dead - it takes a while for the Senate to move. We can only do our part (Call Senators, Write to Senators) and let the process unfold.

Vicky - like imdeng said, you should port if you can. Porting and HR3012 are unrelated topics. Going from EB3 to EB2 itself will save you a few years due to the current status of CODs.

[gcq]

Shall we come to conclusion, based on the political climate and the recent developments that the HR 3012 is dead?
I am seriously considering to port EB2. Gurus please advice.
HR 3012 is no way dead.Not seeing any action in Senate does not mean it is dead. Senate has its own sophisticated rules and procedures. It will take time for it to happen. It is not something which will happen in a flash as soon as Senate convenes.

As for political climate, would the bill have come this far if the political climate was not conducive. For a moment let us think the path this bill has already taken.

There were so many EB immigration bills introduced in the house. None of them gained traction.
Then comes HR 3012.

It cleared Judiciary committee almost with a voice vote. Many destructive amendments were shot down in no time.
It has 11 co sponsors from both sides of the aisle. Some of them really powerful.

Co Sponsors:
Rep Flake, Jeff [AZ-6]
Rep Goodlatte, Bob [VA-6]
Rep Griffin, Tim [AR-2]
Rep Gutierrez, Luis V. [IL-4]
Rep Holt, Rush D. [NJ-12]
Rep Jackson, Jesse L., Jr.
Rep Lofgren, Zoe [CA-16]
Rep Maloney, Carolyn B. [NY-14]
Rep Moran, James P. [VA-8]
Rep Smith, Lamar [TX-21]
Rep Thompson, Glenn [PA-5]

It cleared the house with an overwhelming majority 389-15.

Grassley places a hold on the bill. ROW guys proclaim it is the end of the bill. Some lawyers speculated "a single lawmaker can kill a bill in senate". HR 3012 supporters mourned the "premature death" of the bill.
In no time Rule 14 was invoked on the bill to bypass Grassley's hold and bypass judiciary committee.

Next Options:
1. Grassley removing the hold ( will never happen )
2. Invoking a cloture to overcome filibustering ( Will happen, but lot of background work need to be completed)

Somehow HR 3012 supporters thought the bill is going to be clubbed together with Irish E3 and this will lead to an easy passage of the bill. When Irish E3 faced lot of opposition from antis, people started believing that HR 3012 is dead.

Reality is just the opposite. It is good the Irish E3 is facing lot of opposition. If Irish E3 was clubbed together to HR 3012, combined bill is almost guaranteed to die in the house. If HR 3012 goes forward on its own, it is more likely to pass Senate and be signed by president.

[lalaji]

Update from Oh Law Firm:

02/12/2012: Stake of H.R. 3012 in the Context of Current Political Landscape

Probably H.R. 3012 is currently at the cross road of either its success or failure considering the given political landscape. As this reporter reported earlier, when it comes to a piecemeal immigration reform legislation, historically a formidable roadblock has been posed by the comprehensive immigration reform forces. Currently, H.R. 3012 supporters do not see any visible opposition from the comprehensive immigration reform forces. Why is that? There are several factors that affect the political environment. One factor is the country's down-turn economy and high unemployment rate that arguably cannot accomodate a flood of new immigrants. The supporters of comprehensive immigration reforms seem to have perceived such hurdle and have been waiting for development of a different environment to seize the momentum. For the reasons, the opposition from these forces has been more or less calm down to a state of a powerful sleeping tiger and accepted a compromise in H.R. 3012 as the next best option available under the given circumstances. When it comes to the immigration, two foremost issues for which they have highest stakes are family reunification (family-based immigration) and resolutions for fates and pains of undocumented aliens. Part of the first issue of family-based immigration has been fixed by H.R. 3012 by increasing family-based immigration per country limit from 7% to 15%. Part of the resolutions for undocumented Mexicans is currently being fixed administratively by Obama Administration reducing the pains of physical separation of family members accross the Southern borders in the form of exercise of prosecutorial discretion of illegal immigrant enforcement and focusing on the so-called "stateside" processing of applications for waiver of inadmissibility for these eligible undocumented Mexicans. For the reasons, people see from the news report that there is no fierce uprising or hostile movement in the Mexican community against the Obama Administration despite his failure to initiate comprehensive immigration reform. They are getting what they need under the given circumstances.
However, as we move closer to the election day, the landscape can change because of the newly developing political landscape which will be created by party politics and election strategies to take advantage of Hispanic voters, awakening the sleeping tiger. No one will be surprised to witness in Washington that comprehensive immigration reform proposals and bills will surface again in one form or another. In the past, it usually surfaced around March or not later than April of the election year. H.R. 3012 may have to be taken care of before the new political landscape surfaces.

[lalaji]

Oh Law Firm Update:

02/14/2012: Mouting Frustration With the Stalled H.R. 3012 and Irish E-3 Visa Bill

The Senate adjourned yesterday without taking up either stand-alone H.R. 3012 or H.R. 3012 as amended by Irish E-3. Reportedly, there have been and are some activities behind the scene between the Senators and and H.R. 3012 lobbyists and Irish E-3 supporters, but Senator Chuck Grassley still remains a hefty road-block to find a break-through. Apparently Senator Grassley's compromise proposal involving restrictions to H and L visas remain a tough animal to find a common ground for the break-through. As it stands now, Sen. Grassley's proposal to attach the restriction to H and L visa to H.R. 3012 is not acceptable to the high tech industry, particularly high-tech consulting businesses as such legislation will choke the throat of the high tech industry. The Senate will return to the Hill this morning but there is no sign that any of these bills will be taken up today. See how the Irish community is agonizing, not to mention other stakeholder Indian, Chinese, Mexican, and Filippino communities.

[lalaji]

http://www.irishemigrant.com/ie/go.asp?p=story&storyID=11000

[vickywac]

HR 3012 is no way dead.Not seeing any action in Senate does not mean it is dead. Senate has its own sophisticated rules and procedures. It will take time for it to happen. It is not something which will happen in a flash as soon as Senate convenes.
.
Gurus,
Thanks for the reponse. I stumbleupon on this forum couple of months back and I see most people are knowledgable and helpful. I am completing my 13 th year in this country ans still in limbo as I stuck in EB3.
According to latest news Uncle G*** is not budging for any compromise.
My guess is that uncle G*** won't allow any legal immigration reform until his agenda's are accepted.

Senate minory(GOP) is not interested passing over G****, specifically in any immigration issues.

Gurus your take?.

[gcq]

Gurus,
Thanks for the reponse. I stumbleupon on this forum couple of months back and I see most people are knowledgable and helpful. I am completing my 13 th year in this country ans still in limbo as I stuck in EB3.
According to latest news Uncle G*** is not budging for any compromise.
My guess is that uncle G*** won't allow any legal immigration reform until his agenda's are accepted.

Senate minory(GOP) is not interested passing over G****, specifically in any immigration issues.

Gurus your take?.
Uncle G does not care about GOP, GOP does not care about uncle G. Uncle G's stand has no relevance to GOP's stand.

[vickywac]

Uncle G does not care about GOP, GOP does not care about uncle G. Uncle G's stand has no relevance to GOP's stand.
According to news media, Senate GOP leadership is not interested in outmaneuver the uncle G*.

Irish would like to use this bill as a vehicle, there is already not positive news about the irish provision, antis start their campaign to oppose the irish provision. Hmmmm... its going to be interesting...
I am trying to be optimistic !

[immitime]

According to news media, Senate GOP leadership is not interested in outmaneuver the uncle G*.

Irish would like to use this bill as a vehicle, there is already not positive news about the irish provision, antis start their campaign to oppose the irish provision. Hmmmm... its going to be interesting...
I am trying to be optimistic !

vickywac

Can You Please provide the News media which shows that GOP senate leadership are not interested in out maneouver grass--ley????

Thanks for the optimism! but interested to know which news media reported the above?

[lalaji]

Pressure mounts on Senator Brown:
http://www.irishcentral.com/news/Pressure-mounts-on-Senator-Scott-Brown-to-deliver-on-Irish-visas-139349003.html

[vickywac]

immitime,
Frish media
any possible Irish E-3 breakthrough is completely at the mercy of Senator Grassley’s flexibility on HR3012.

Irish news media was reporting as if G* is ok, Mitch is ok. G* is not agains the Irish, he want bring his H1B provision, most of us not sure what is actually is going on behind the sceen. Also, Irish media was reporting that the compromise from G* is not imminent on our bill.
Looks like its kind of black box as of now. Patience is the key.

[immitime]

immitime,
Frish media
Irish news media was reporting as if G* is ok, Mitch is ok. G* is not agains the Irish, he want bring his H1B provision, most of us not sure what is actually is going on behind the sceen. Also, Irish media was reporting that the compromise from G* is not imminent on our bill.
Looks like its kind of black box as of now. Patience is the key.

Thank You, Irish Media, Oh law firm all other so called pretending all knowing websites should be ignored and we should not take them seriously. What is really happening is H.r.3012 has been placed on Senate Calender by invoking rule 14. US Legislative process will take its own sweet time. If Grass-ley cannot be convinced for Unanimous consent, Sen majority Leader should find time for Clouter motion (makes sure he will get 60 votes out of 100 Senators,with 30 hours of debate, so all the senators should be present at the time of voting,co-ordinating all this takes time) As you said Patience is the Key.

E-3 Visa and Fairness for High skilled are two seperate issues. Irish lobby can try to use H.r. 3012 as a Vehicle but at present it may not be possible. Even Sen. Schumer said last month that if not with H.R.3012 with some other bill.

[lalaji]

Update from Oh Law Firm:

02/16/2012: Senate Schedule Update and H.R. 3012 & Irish E-3 Visa Bill

The H.R. 3012 and Irish E-3 Visa bills failed to be taken up on the Senate floor yesterday. The Senate floor does not have any schedule for vote today. The Senate has a vote schedule tomorrow for Cloture Motions relating to consent to federal official appointments but thus far H.R. 3012 or Irish E-3 visa bill are not included in the tomorrow's Senate floor schedule. The schedules can change and we will report it, should there be any changes with the Senate floor calendars. Irish news media reports that two ultra-conservative Republican Senators Vitter of Louisiana and Sessions of Alabama expressed that they would object to these bills. Please stay tuned to this website for updates.

[lalaji]

From Irish Echo:

The hoped-for Irish E-3 visa bill that Senator Scott Brown said last week was “about to pop” was still stalled on Capitol Hill this week with Iowa Senator Charles Grassley maintaining his hold on a measure that combines the proposals of Massachusetts Republican Brown, and New York Democrat, Senator Charles Schumer.

As such, the story has become a tale of two Chucks (Grassley and Schumer) with a Scott in the middle.

Sources were indicating this week that Grassley was effectively proposing to “eviscerate” the Irish E-3 proposal by merging it with an existing E-3 program open to Australians.

The Schumer Irish bill envisages 10,000 renewable E-3 visas on an annual basis for eligible Irish applicants. But according to sources, there would be precious few E-3s for the Irish under Grassley’s plan as virtually all the visas would be snapped up by Australians.

Backers of the Irish E-3 are now looking to Senator Brown, who has penned his own Irish E-3 measure, to persuade sufficient Republican colleagues in the Senate to reach a required 60 votes.

The Schumer version of the bill is supported by all 53 Democrats.

“He needs to get his side in order,” said a source, referring to Sen. Brown.

Last week, Brown told the Boston Herald that his E3 bill was “about to pop” on Capitol Hill with passage possible before week’s end.

“In Massachusetts we have such a strong demand for this because of our family and cultural ties. This is kind of a no-brainer,” Brown told the daily.

Brown’s bill actually proposes 10,500 Irish E-3s but leaves out any possible waiver for the undocumented Irish. In order to secure across the aisle agreement, Sen. Schumer removed a waiver provision from his bill, S.1983, in order to reach an accommodation with Brown and his GOP allies.

Brown told the Boston Herald that he was “trying to work” with Sen. Grassley to have him and other Republicans “step back” from their

objections.

“We’re ready to pass it today,” Martin Brennan, state director for Senator Schumer, said of the combined Irish E-3 proposal

[Suva2001]

I don't see this news in IrishCentral! Can you provide the link please?



From Irish Echo:

The hoped-for Irish E-3 visa bill that Senator Scott Brown said last week was “about to pop” was still stalled on Capitol Hill this week with Iowa Senator Charles Grassley maintaining his hold on a measure that combines the proposals of Massachusetts Republican Brown, and New York Democrat, Senator Charles Schumer.

As such, the story has become a tale of two Chucks (Grassley and Schumer) with a Scott in the middle.

Sources were indicating this week that Grassley was effectively proposing to “eviscerate” the Irish E-3 proposal by merging it with an existing E-3 program open to Australians.

The Schumer Irish bill envisages 10,000 renewable E-3 visas on an annual basis for eligible Irish applicants. But according to sources, there would be precious few E-3s for the Irish under Grassley’s plan as virtually all the visas would be snapped up by Australians.

Backers of the Irish E-3 are now looking to Senator Brown, who has penned his own Irish E-3 measure, to persuade sufficient Republican colleagues in the Senate to reach a required 60 votes.

The Schumer version of the bill is supported by all 53 Democrats.

“He needs to get his side in order,” said a source, referring to Sen. Brown.

Last week, Brown told the Boston Herald that his E3 bill was “about to pop” on Capitol Hill with passage possible before week’s end.

“In Massachusetts we have such a strong demand for this because of our family and cultural ties. This is kind of a no-brainer,” Brown told the daily.

Brown’s bill actually proposes 10,500 Irish E-3s but leaves out any possible waiver for the undocumented Irish. In order to secure across the aisle agreement, Sen. Schumer removed a waiver provision from his bill, S.1983, in order to reach an accommodation with Brown and his GOP allies.

Brown told the Boston Herald that he was “trying to work” with Sen. Grassley to have him and other Republicans “step back” from their

objections.

“We’re ready to pass it today,” Martin Brennan, state director for Senator Schumer, said of the combined Irish E-3 proposal

[lalaji]

http://irishecho.com/?p=69732

[leo07]

Sorry for asking stupid q, What's the likely out come?

[longgcque]

This bill likely die slowly ...

[mniwas]

This bill is already dying a slow painful pitiful death.

[mniwas]

Sorry for slight change in subject:
I am looking at the Pending I-485 inventory for Jan 2012:
There are 15,583 for EB1, 30,125 for EB2, 365 for EB4, and 23 for EB5.
Together all these combined should be allocated 100,000 GC numbers. where as the total is 46,096.
So why isn't the EB2 for India current?, I do realize that some GCs have already been granted in this fiscal year.... but even accounting for that (maybe around 36000) should make EB2 current.

What I am trying to get at is: if EB2 becomes current soon then remaining numbers should start rolling over to EB3.
My PD is July1, 2003.... I am just trying to estimate when I will get GC in case this congress continues to do nothing about the Plight of EB3 folks.

[lalaji]

http://www.irishcentral.com/news/-Senator-Scott-Brown-pushing-GOP-to-pass-Irish-visa-bill-reports-Politico-139505748.html

[immitime]

Sorry for slight change in subject:
I am looking at the Pending I-485 inventory for Jan 2012:
There are 15,583 for EB1, 30,125 for EB2, 365 for EB4, and 23 for EB5.
Together all these combined should be allocated 100,000 GC numbers. where as the total is 46,096.
So why isn't the EB2 for India current?, I do realize that some GCs have already been granted in this fiscal year.... but even accounting for that (maybe around 36000) should make EB2 current.

What I am trying to get at is: if EB2 becomes current soon then remaining numbers should start rolling over to EB3.
My PD is July1, 2003.... I am just trying to estimate when I will get GC in case this congress continues to do nothing about the Plight of EB3 folks.

mniwas

If EB-2 India date becomes current,(not likely this fiscal year, unless 3012 becomes law) the spillover will not be for EB-3 India, EB-3 Row will be benefitted. Please remove the misconception!

Again, If H.r.3012 is for dying in the calendar, then they will not have invoked Rule 14 for avoiding this bill getting killed in Judiciary committee. Senate placed this bill on calendar after second reading, on Jan 23rd 2012, not even a month. Senate procedure takes its own time. So be Patient, Irish, and Oh law firm reports are half baked and most of the news coming out are speculation from Journalist/Attorney's mind Please do not take it seriously.

[vickywac]

mniwas

If EB-2 India date becomes current,(not likely this fiscal year, unless 3012 becomes law) the spillover will not be for EB-3 India, EB-3 Row will be benefitted. Please remove the misconception!

Here is my take, If there is no vote by march, senate would not take this bill to vote until end of this year.

[Pedro Gonzales]

Here is my take, If there is no vote by march, senate would not take this bill to vote until end of this year.

A colleague of mine who is really into politics (he watches MSNBC and FOX all the time, even while at work), thinks the Senate will turn Republican after the next election, and in the lame duck session Reid, in his last month as Senate majority leader will invoke cloture every 3 days to pass some 10 to 15 bills that have been held up by Grassley and others thus far. He thinks that they'll be Democrat supported measures in general, but will have to include a few that have bipartisan support. He doesn't think there are many bipartisan bills so HR 3012 could well be one of them that pass at that time. Otherwise he doesn't see Reid invoking cloture on something this unimportant to the American public. He thinks there is a good chance that if the economy keeps improving and Republican poll numbers keep dropping (apparently the most stated reason for independents to switch support is because Republicans are seen as obstructionists), then the Republican Senators who are up for tough reelections (not many with clout) and the entire Republican Congress (huge clout as a body) will give Grassley something else in return for his dropping his hold, just so that they can chalk up a successful immigration achievement that is still largely seen as their initiative. I asked him what they could possibly give Grassley, who has no reelection for another 4 years, no sign of credidble opposition and no obvious further ambitions, but he thinks there always is something.

This is purely one man's opinion. He has no inside knowledge of anything. He only knows about this bill because I've told him about it. What he has is decades of experience watching American politics, and a pretty good understanding (media driven no doubt) of what goes on in Washington. I believe him too.

In summary, I think the bill still has a 50-50 chance of getting through the senate unadultered (as it would happen not through cloture, but through Grassley dropping his hold) in the next several months, and a > 75% chance of passing at the end of the year.

[gcq]

Grassley is one kind of a person. He will not compromise. This bill will have to pass through cloture. IMO republicans are not going to have the dream run they had in the past election. In fact republicans will be on defense this time especially with Obama up for re-election.

If democrats lose senate, what is their motivation to pass bills in cloture motion ? If this bill is to pass, it has to pass now with a cloture.

[vickywac]

Grassley is one kind of a person. He will not compromise. This bill will have to pass through cloture. IMO republicans are not going to have the dream run they had in the past election. In fact republicans will be on defense this time especially with Obama up for re-election.

If democrats lose senate, what is their motivation to pass bills in cloture motion ? If this bill is to pass, it has to pass now with a cloture.

Gcq,
I agree with you. Grassley will not release his hold anytime. Here are the possible scenarios that would happen for HR 3012 in senate.
1. Cloture for HR 3012 as a sperate bill.
2. Cloture for HR 3012 + Irish, still not sure it will pass thru in house, house will
oppose for any increase in visa numbers numerically. If the bill failed to pass in
house what would be the fate of HR 3012?.
Democrats need to have a political will to bring the cloture before election.
Poor EB3 folks, including me, spectators of the political drama!
As this is reppublican bill, what is the position on the republican senate leadership on this bill ?. Will they go with grassley on immigration matters all time?...

This is really a test for our patience. This is my 13 year with mercy of the 2007 bulletin fiasco. This is really testing my patience!.

[gcq]

I don't think GOP leadership will have any issue with the bill. In fact they will firmly support this bill along with the democrats. The critical thing is to pass this bill without any amendments.

[vickywac]

I don't think GOP leadership will have any issue with the bill. In fact they will firmly support this bill along with the democrats. The critical thing is to pass this bill without any amendments.
Thank you. What is your best hunch still the cloture not been invoked?.
Our best interest would be the bill as standalone but If the cloture invoked with IRISH, what would be the fate of this Bill in house?.
As we know, house is against in any increase in numerical limits.

Do IRISH provision would be endorsed by congress rep as well,
before it amened in senate?.

Lot's of If and but....
GB

[gcq]

I am with you that a stand alone bill is the best. If combined with Irish E3, it may not clear the house. The main reason that HR 3012 had a smooth sail is because it does not increase a single visa. If E3 is added to HR 3012, anti-immigrant groups will strongly oppose even if lawmakers are ok with it.

If Irish were confident that they will get enough support in house, they wouldn't have combined E3 into HR 3012. They want to take advantage of HR 3012's success in the house.

My impression about Irish has come down a lot after their misadventure with E3. I didn't know that Irish are this naive and spineless.

[idiotic]

HR3012 is on Obama's Jobs agenda. It is through that route that Reid will be filing cloture on HR3012. When Reid is going to take up Obama's jobs agenda, no one knows. Reid on the floor today said that he will be focussing on surface transport and postal dept bills as next on Senate agenda. He dealt with all pending nominations today in one shot. For now, we need to wait till Surface transport and postal bills get through. Hopefully Obama's jobs bill will be next.. That's my thinking..

[Pedro Gonzales]

HR3012 is on Obama's Jobs agenda. It is through that route that Reid will be filing cloture on HR3012. When Reid is going to take up Obama's jobs agenda, no one knows. Reid on the floor today said that he will be focussing on surface transport and postal dept bills as next on Senate agenda. He dealt with all pending nominations today in one shot. For now, we need to wait till Surface transport and postal bills get through. Hopefully Obama's jobs bill will be next.. That's my thinking..

That too makes sense.

[vickywac]

Interesting and postive views. Do senate wait until St. patrick day to invoke cloture on this bill?.

[lalaji]

More senators join E3:
http://www.irishcentral.com/news/Key-Republican-senators-sign-up-to-Irish-E3-visa-bill-139570188.html

[imdeng]

Well... I am perhaps too cynical - but even if HR-3012 passed WITH E3 amendment in the Senate, I don't think house will shoot it down. Most of the people who are Anti-Immigrant are really using the term as code for being Anti-The-Recent-Kind-Of-Immigrant. I would not be surprised if even hardcore anti organizations and people will somehow find a rationale for being perfectly fine with adding 10K additional visas for Irish. There is a deep undercurrent of subtext and history behind all the immigration debates and even though overt racism might be dead in the public discourse, the underlying theme still stays strong.

Did anyone oppose the Australian E3 visa when it came up? At least I did not hear about it. Even Irish E3 visa does not have any vocal opposition - they have less support for not outright opposition. Just imagine how it would be if someone proposes an E3 for India/China/Mexico/etc.

[vickywac]

It's going to very tough battle in cogress unless if there is a unanimous consent by both parties on the Irish provision in senate.
Once chaffetz referred that " even lamar smith will not agree if there is increase in numbers".
Increase in numbers is going to be play negative in news media, though it passed in senate thro cloture.
Irishi is gonna playing a gamble on their provision by using the HR 3012 as their dice.
Look at the comments from the readers for the Politico article.
http://dyn.politico.com/members/forums/thread.cfm?catid=1&subcatid=1&threadid=6440544

[gs1968]

To vickywac
The even more difficult problem is to break the hold by Senator Grassley. The Irish media keeps repeating the tally of Senators on both sides but it is important not to equate support for a particular measure with commitment to vote to break filibuster. They may vote for cloture to limit debate if all disagreements are out of the way but are unlikely to vote to undermine their own caucus unity. I have a link below to a somewhat parallel situation in the senate-

http://news.bostonherald.com/news/national/general/view/20120216rand_paul_puts_synthetic_drug_bill_on_hold/srvc=home&position=recent

This is also a measure with bipartisan support and counts Senators Schumer and Grassley as co-sponsors.Both of them have made powerful floor speeches to let the Bill move forward.If a cloture motion were to be filed it is very likely that this Bill will pass the Senate.However they will continue to wait for unanimous consent.Next to elephants, Senators have long memories and will remember when other senators voted against them. Every Senator has had either a Bill or nomination on hold at some point and it would weaken their hand if they voted to break other senators' holds especially of their own party.If a freshman senator can hold up a Bill and others are waiting for him to release it-I am not sure how one will break a Senior Senator like Grassley's hold unless he relents himself

BTW can any other forum member point a link to where it says Sens.Sessions and Vitter are against the Irish Provision?

[vickywac]

To vickywac
The even more difficult problem is to break the hold by Senator Grassley. The Irish media keeps repeating the tally of Senators on both sides but it is important not to equate support for a particular measure with commitment to vote to break filibuster. They may vote for cloture to limit debate if all disagreements are out of the way but are unlikely to vote to undermine their own caucus unity. I have a link below to a somewhat parallel situation in the senate-


Interesting. There is no synergy between the senate and house within republican party. If this is true HR 3012 is in high risk to pass in senate.
What about the agenda as a party, if the two chambers dont work together?.

[gcq]

I don't know why people still like to talk about Grassley's "hold" when HR 3012 has already bypassed judiciary committee and is on Senate calendar !

Grassley on fillibuster http://youtu.be/o8VLBhhlhcs

Grassley on why he likes Senate than house ? fillibuster http://youtu.be/nBnD8uaH1Ds

Ethanol subsidies: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aDclBdC5MP0

[kuku82]

Seems we are 2 senators short of magical 60.......

http://www.irishcentral.com/news/Key-Republican-senators-sign-up-to-Irish-E3-visa-bill-139570188.html

[Kanmani]

Senator Brown's E-3 bill is exclusively drafted to benefit Irish, which has nothing to do with our 3012.
Here is the bill text http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/BILLS-112s2005is/pdf/BILLS-112s2005is.pdf
I cannot find any of our bill's provisions attached with it, but I may be wrong. If others find it in the other way, please correct me.

[kd2008]

Senator Brown's E-3 bill is exclusively drafted to benefit Irish, which has nothing to do with our 3012.
Here is the bill text http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/BILLS-112s2005is/pdf/BILLS-112s2005is.pdf
I cannot find any of our bill's provisions attached with it, but I may be wrong. If others find it in the other way, please correct me.

Kanmani, the backdoor deals will be completed before anything shows up on the official bills. Yes, Sen. Brown has a separate bill. Sen. Schumer has proposed an amendment to HR 3012 that includes essentially Sen. Brown's bill. Again the operating word is proposed. You won't find it in the official records.

Because it is so controversial, everything is done behind the closed doors without any open debate and then unanimous consent will be sought. I think the Senate is underestimating the House here. If the Senate passes the bill HR 3012 with the Irish amendment then the House will reject it for sure. We being mere puppets are just going to watch the show and see our future being kicked around like a football.

[kuku82]

Even if HR3012 clubbed with the Irish bill is cleared by the House, I'm wondering what Obama's stance would be on the same. The thing that concerns me is the eligibility requirements for the E-3 visa....which are not really deemed "high skilled".....and given the current economic circumstances! In all of his addresses, he has specifically talked about 'high skilled immigration'.......

[Kanmani]

kuku
one of Obama's GGGGreat parents is Irish:D

[kuku82]

Sweet, now my fear is kinda allayed!

[mniwas]

If Irish PrimeMinister can come and talk to senators for their people. Why can't Manmohan Singh come and do the same for Indians. O' India almost never supports anything America does. India abstained in Libya vote, wants to do business with Iran. I don't think India has any leverage with Americans.

[lalaji]

Latest on E3:

http://newrytimes.com/2012/02/20/us-senate-still-locked-in-battle-over-irish-e3-visa-bill/

[Jonty Rhodes]

You are right. The bill does not show anything attached to it but this bill itself has not been blocked by Grassley. Grassley has still his hold on HR 3012 and they are trying to attach this bill with it and that is why they are making it filibuster proof. But I agree with kd2008 that if this bill passes the Senate, we don't know what will happen to it in the House because House has again a Republican Majority and I don't know whether they would agree with this Irish provision or not. Hopefully, we will see some action next week on the bill.

[gs1968]

More confusion-A lot of these Irish media stories seem to conflict each other

http://www.workpermit.com/news/2012-02-21/us/us-immigration-may-soon-make-e-3-visa-program-for-professionals-available-to-irish.htm

[immitime]

Interesting article

Hopefully Honest but Hopelessly wrong! might be one of the reason for treating Legal immigration as political football to play as they wish.

http://www.theleafchronicle.com/article/20120221/COLUMNISTS25/302210030

[gcq]

Interesting article

Hopefully Honest but Hopelessly wrong! might be one of the reason for treating Legal immigration as political football to play as they wish.

http://www.theleafchronicle.com/article/20120221/COLUMNISTS25/302210030
An article that dares to tell the uncomfortable truth. Any surprise that an Irish E-3 could get a support of 50+ senators in no time whereas a minor tweak to high skilled immigrant bill is still struggling to clear senate ?

[immitime]

An article that dares to tell the uncomfortable truth. Any surprise that an Irish E-3 could get a support of 50+ senators in no time whereas a minor tweak to high skilled immigrant bill is still struggling to clear senate ?

Exactly, and the leader of this mental cancer is grassuncle!

[gs1968]

An update to the ongoing saga

http://irishecho.com/?p=69944

[immitime]

Immigration chief Mr.Mayorkas seeks to reassure Silicon Valley


http://www.usatoday.com/money/industries/technology/story/2012-02-22/silicon-valley-tech-immigration/53211162/1

[vickywac]

At any rate, this entire discussion may be moot. Politico reports that Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) is opposing Brown’s pet bill out of concern that it could “hurt high-skilled American jobs.” And this is an election year. No one will seriously attempt, much less pass, anything before November.
http://www.wnyc.org/articles/its-free-country/2012/feb/23/sen-brown-irish-immigration-bill-raises-questions-latino-asian-communities/

Intersting to read, according to this and the Irish agenda is really big threat for H R 3012 and It may not pass before November election
Hmmm..

[longgcque]

I think it will die slowly .. no news from any source these days :confused:


http://www.wnyc.org/articles/its-free-country/2012/feb/23/sen-brown-irish-immigration-bill-raises-questions-latino-asian-communities/

Intersting to read, according to this and the Irish agenda is really big threat for H R 3012 and It may not pass before November election
Hmmm..

[lalaji]

Hope for good news this week..

http://www.irishcentral.com/news/Key-week-shaping-up-for-passage-of-E3-visa-bill-for-Irish-in-US-Senate-140477933.html

[gs1968]

To Lalaji and Immitime
Thanks for keeping an eagle eye on the news and bringing us updates. Irish Central is very positive always about the chances of this Bill but does not clearly say if it is mentioning the IRE Bill of Sen Brown or S.1983 of Sen Schumer. If the aim is unanimous consent then hopefully no damaging amendments are introduced to achieve this.

BTW, we tend to overlook the family-based component of this Bill.I saw this news item on my news alert

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/global-filipino/02/20/12/bill-cut-wait-time-us-family-petitions-peril

As usual-we have to wait and see.As they say there is always next week!

[lalaji]

As per Oh law firm Irish E3 may be added to Israeli E2 by house as an amendment..?

02/26/2012: Irish Community Takes Next Week as Key Week to Pass H.R. 3012 + Irish E-3 Visa Legislation in Unainimous Consent

As this reporter predicted earlier, the forthcoming important Irish St. Patrick's Day celebration in this country can give a momentum for these legislative bills. The Irish media agrees with this reporter's assessment by reporting today that this week (02/27/2012-03/02/2012) will be a key week for the fate of these bills. They hope that they see a break through in negotiation with Sen. Grassley or obtain at least 60 Senators to pass the bills swiftly within this week. From such hope, apparently Irish community is pumping up lobby activities to get support from the members of the House such that when the bill(as) as amended goes back to the House, the bills are not seriously challenged because of the Irish E-3 amendment. They also recognize, just as this reporter predicted, that the bills as amended may face a different floor in the House, different for the floor where the stand-alone H.R. 3012 was swiftly passed with 365 absolute majority with only 15 nays. In this regard, the passage of these bills, as amended, in the Senate will be considered a success but not a complete success. Supporters of these bills may have to go through another cycle of painful struggle, this time in the House. What happens if Israeli E-2 bill (investment nonimmigrant visa) which is pending in the House attempts to be attached to this bill in the form of amendment? Who knows!

[Jonty Rhodes]

Interesting Articles

http://www.policymic.com/articles/4670/to-build-the-american-dream-2-0-start-with-reforming-u-s-immigration-laws/category_list

http://www.indiawest.com/news/3176-u-s-immigration-policy-critic-receives-uscis-award.html

[kuku82]

Seems senate is trying to tackle the small business growth related bill(s) next. I'd think this helps H.R.3012 indirectly.

http://democrats.senate.gov/2012/02/28/reid-senate-will-move-forward-with-small-business-jobs-bill/

[mniwas]

Why has this site gone dead.... has everyone given up?

[idiotic]

Why has this site gone dead.... has everyone given up?

http://thehill.com/homenews/house/213385-boehner-describes-obama-meeting-with-leaders-as-constructive

This is the way HR3012 is going to get to Senate floor. We have to be patient till the more important things are finished up in Senate.

[vickywac]

http://thehill.com/blogs/floor-action/house/213613-cantor-says-jobs-bill-set-for-house-passage-next-week

FYI..HR 3012 is not in the House Jobs Bill...

[dorais]

Hope I am not missing anything...

HR 3012 has already passed the house and it is waiting for the senate.


http://thehill.com/blogs/floor-action/house/213613-cantor-says-jobs-bill-set-for-house-passage-next-week

FYI..HR 3012 is not in the House Jobs Bill...

[idiotic]

http://thehill.com/blogs/floor-action/house/213613-cantor-says-jobs-bill-set-for-house-passage-next-week

FYI..HR 3012 is not in the House Jobs Bill...

http://www.speaker.gov/blog/
Follow the link "Plan for America’s Job Creators". You will see HR3012. I agree that Eric Cantor's initial version of Jobs bill released today has only 6 instead of the 27 bills. I think it is political move to front only 6 important bills as it may invite severe scrutiny from Democrats. Let's hope that other bills like HR3012 also get added in the amendment process.

[vickywac]

http://www.speaker.gov/blog/
Follow the link "Plan for America’s Job Creators". You will see HR3012. I agree that Eric Cantor's initial version of Jobs bill released today has only 6 instead of the 27 bills. I think it is political move to front only 6 important bills as it may invite severe scrutiny from Democrats. Let's hope that other bills like HR3012 also get added in the amendment process.

Are the Democrats against the bill?. Whe would these bills come to vote?. Just speculating, Do the Bill come to vote before election?. Guru's What is your take?

[gcq]

Are the Democrats against the bill?. Whe would these bills come to vote?. Just speculating, Do the Bill come to vote before election?. Guru's What is your take?

We don't know whether republicans and democrats are serious about this bill. If they are, they would definitely bring it before the elections. If it is a political game, they will use it to blame the other side.

As jobs are big determining factor for the upcoming elections, they will probably take it up in one form or another.
Let us hope for the best !

[vickywac]

We don't know whether republicans and democrats are serious about this bill. If they are, they would definitely bring it before the elections. If it is a political game, they will use it to blame the other side.
As jobs are big determining factor for the upcoming elections, they will probably take it up in one form or another.
Let us hope for the best !
Gcq,
Thank you!. No news about the Irish bill as the Irish media predicted as last week was the key!. Looks like it's tough sell for E3.

[mniwas]

Source: http://democrats.senate.gov/2012/03/05/schedule-for-monday-march-5-2012/
The Senate will convene at 2:00pm on Monday, March 5. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will proceed to a period of morning business with senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each. There will be no roll call votes on Monday, March 5.
On Friday, Senator Reid filed cloture on the Reid amendment #1761 and S.1813, Surface Transportation bill. At 12:00 noon on Tuesday, March 6, the Senate will proceed to vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the Reid amendment #1761.

[longgcque]

what is promising here ? I dont see any reference to 3012.. am i missing some thing


Source: http://democrats.senate.gov/2012/03/05/schedule-for-monday-march-5-2012/
The Senate will convene at 2:00pm on Monday, March 5. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will proceed to a period of morning business with senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each. There will be no roll call votes on Monday, March 5.
On Friday, Senator Reid filed cloture on the Reid amendment #1761 and S.1813, Surface Transportation bill. At 12:00 noon on Tuesday, March 6, the Senate will proceed to vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the Reid amendment #1761.

[kd2008]

what is promising here ? I dont see any reference to 3012.. am i missing some thing

mniwas frequently posts Senate schedule of the day. No you are not missing anything. HR 3012 is not going to show up magically one day in the Senate Schedule. Some people believe otherwise.

[immitime]

mniwas frequently posts Senate schedule of the day. No you are not missing anything. HR 3012 is not going to show up magically one day in the Senate Schedule. Some people believe otherwise.

Speculation cannot reach anywhere, Senate have its own procedures to voting and there are lot of political manouvering. There are lot of families waiting for this bill. you cannot just say some statments without any link or proof. Please do not discourage people who are contacting their senators on daily basis. If you want to say something which is going to happen, Please provide authentic link.

[kd2008]

Speculation cannot reach anywhere, Senate have its own procedures to voting and there are lot of political manouvering. There are lot of families waiting for this bill. you cannot just say some statments without any link or proof. Please do not discourage people who are contacting their senators on daily basis. If you want to say something which is going to happen, Please provide authentic link.

I am not saying it is not going to pass. If an agreement is reached it will be known everywhere before the vote is scheduled. I have never discouraged anyone from doing anything. Everybody should do what they can to pass it.

[mniwas]

mniwas frequently posts Senate schedule of the day. No you are not missing anything. HR 3012 is not going to show up magically one day in the Senate Schedule. Some people believe otherwise.

Harry Reid had said that next bill (after surface transport and postal) is "Obama Jobs bill". Senate calendar gives you some insight on the status and schedule for current (surface transport) bill... Once this is thru... Harry can bring up the "Obama Jobs bill" which includes HR3012. That is the reason I had posted Senate schedule.

Hope it helps.

[vickywac]

Read on..
http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/03/06/10594896-white-house-blesses-house-gop-jobs-bill

[abcx13]

Harry Reid had said that next bill (after surface transport and postal) is "Obama Jobs bill". Senate calendar gives you some insight on the status and schedule for current (surface transport) bill... Once this is thru... Harry can bring up the "Obama Jobs bill" which includes HR3012. That is the reason I had posted Senate schedule.

Hope it helps.

Apologies if I missed it, but how do we know HR3012 will come up in the Senate when the Jobs bill is taken up?

[psychedelicNerd]

Read on..
http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/03/06/10594896-white-house-blesses-house-gop-jobs-bill

I read the article. It mentions that the JOBS bill has 6 bills in it. Do we know what those bills are if any mention of H.R. 3012 is in it?

[essenel]

I read the article. It mentions that the JOBS bill has 6 bills in it. Do we know what those bills are if any mention of H.R. 3012 is in it?

http://thehill.com/blogs/floor-action/house/214557-wednesday-jobs-act-in-the-house

And (pdf):
http://thehill.com/images/stories/blogs/flooraction/jan2012/hr3606.pdf

[kd2008]

I read the article. It mentions that the JOBS bill has 6 bills in it. Do we know what those bills are if any mention of H.R. 3012 is in it?

No, it does not mention HR 3012. Please let me know if this is not correct.

[psychedelicNerd]

Yea.....H.R. 3012 is not in the bills mentioned in the JOBS Act. Dunno if it would get added, but so far i dont see any mention of H.R. 3012 in the JOBS Act.

[gs1968]

To PsychedelicNerd
There is room for hope yet.Even though the House Version does not contain the 3012 provisions,according to the article below Sen Reid wants to pass a Senate version of small business bills and reconcile in conference. I agree with other forum members that this most likely is not going to contain any immigration provisions as the Bill is designed mainly to increase access to capital for small businesses. In any case he has not provided any timeline for this legislation and it appears like after the transportation Bill he plans to confirm 12 judges and work on postal or cyber-security legislation.The transportation Bill should extend well into next week as there are no Roll Call votes tomorrow or Monday. For people who are keeping track-we are now past 100 days since passage of 3012 in the House and the limbo is still continuing!

http://www.rollcall.com/news/senate_leaders_clash_over_highway_bill-212987-1.html?pos=htmbtxt

[idiotic]

House passed jobs act. No HR3012 in it.

From the link below, see the comment from HArry Reid..
Senate Majority Leader Harry M. Reid (D-Nev.) said Thursday he would introduce similar legislation next week and “move as quickly as we can” to pass it, but said a highway bill current under consideration in the Senate would create more jobs faster than the House proposal.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/2chambers/post/congresss-new-favorite-four-letter-word-jobs/2012/03/06/gIQAGPzexR_blog.html

[gs1968]

To idiotic
Thanks for the link.In any case it is unlikely that immigration provisions are going to be included in the business startup Bill but one can still hope!

[vizcard]

To idiotic
Thanks for the link.In any case it is unlikely that immigration provisions are going to be included in the business startup Bill but one can still hope!

I would agree. Unrelated topics. If anything HR3012 will be negatively perceived in this context.

[chengisk]

Same story, same rant...

http://www.irishcentral.com/news/GOP-Senator-Grassley-still-blocking-Irish-and-hi-tech-immigration-bill-in-US-Senate--142298295.html

<sigh>

[psychedelicNerd]

I think i saw the number of pages go up to 59 for this thread. And now its 58? Are the posts being deleted?

[Kanmani]

I think i saw the number of pages go up to 59 for this thread. And now its 58? Are the posts being deleted?

I deleted few of my old posts which I found irrelevant now. Good observation :)

[lalaji]

Some hope still exists

http://irishecho.com/?p=70330

[gcq]

Some hope still exists

http://irishecho.com/?p=70330
Irish news sites are the least reliable when it comes to E3 or HR 3012. So don't pin our hopes around Irish news sites or E3.

[vickywac]

Yahoo reports there is high political drama on the HR 3012 and irish bill..Interesting to read...

TechNet is planning a major valley fundraiser for Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky this spring. A major goal of the event will be pressing the Republican leader to urge Grassley to lift his hold on the Chaffetz bill.

http://news.yahoo.com/gridlocked-203444171.html

[manubhai]

Yahoo reports there is high political drama on the HR 3012 and irish bill..Interesting to read...

TechNet is planning a major valley fundraiser for Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky this spring. A major goal of the event will be pressing the Republican leader to urge Grassley to lift his hold on the Chaffetz bill.

http://news.yahoo.com/gridlocked-203444171.html

Thanks for the excellent link vickywac.

I am intrigued by these... had not seen these before and am not sure how to validate these from another source. (Am I the only one who hasn't seen these before?)


...

Trying to determine exactly how the popular Chaffetz proposal got mired in this mess is like chasing an earring down a sink drain. To sum up:

• Grassley says he is willing to lift his hold on H.R. 3012 if Schumer backs off his Irish-visa proposal.

• Schumer says that Democrats aren’t the holdup; it’s actually a Republican, Sen. Scott Brown of Massachusetts, who shot his mouth off to a bunch of Irish constituents back home, saying that the Irish-visa bill was “about to pop.” Massachusetts—where Brown expects a tough reelection fight—is the hub of the Ireland lobby.

• Brown says he has not placed a hold on the Chaffetz proposal and supports it in principle. But he also wants the Irish-visa bill to pass, and he won’t say whether he would block the Chaffetz bill if the Irish measure doesn’t move with it.

• Grassley, meanwhile, has offered Schumer a chance for an up-or-down vote on the Irish-visa bill, provided the required skill levels get tweaked and the special-visa program has an end date. There’s no word yet on whether Schumer will accept the offer.

...


Note that Grassley had placed a hold on 3012 before the Irish bill came to life. If the first bulleted statement is correct, it means that negotiations have yielded "some" result with him. It also means that the only thing holding the passing of 3012 is the Irish bill(Scott or Schumer).

I'd suggest we not get too engrossed with this piece of information till verified from some other source.

[gs1968]

To Vickywac and Manubhai
I agree with you but the earlier part of the article also says quite clearly that Sen.Grassley wants to add H-1B reform agenda to it as this may be the only chance for years.I think the article contradicts itself but we have to wait and see. Harry Reid also wants to attach DREAM legislation according to some weekend reports

[abcx13]

To Vickywac and Manubhai
I agree with you but the earlier part of the article also says quite clearly that Sen.Grassley wants to add H-1B reform agenda to it as this may be the only chance for years.I think the article contradicts itself but we have to wait and see. Harry Reid also wants to attach DREAM legislation according to some weekend reports

I think what is interesting is that there is a lot of behind-the-scenes wrangling going on and I* carries less weight than the tech lobby. There's still hope I guess.

[gcq]

Yahoo reports there is high political drama on the HR 3012 and irish bill..Interesting to read...

TechNet is planning a major valley fundraiser for Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky this spring. A major goal of the event will be pressing the Republican leader to urge Grassley to lift his hold on the Chaffetz bill.

http://news.yahoo.com/gridlocked-203444171.html

This seems to be the real story
Also here http://www.nationaljournal.com/features/restoration-calls/gridlocked-out-20120314

[gs1968]

To abcx13
The country cap elimination idea has been around for more than 4 years well before ** got involved (since 2008)

http://www.opencongress.org/bill/110-h5921/comments

Ms.Lofgren has been promoting this and visa re-capture since atleast the 110th congress.The only reason this has become contentious is that it made to the floor of the House and passed which the earlier Bills did not

The article in question seems full of contraindications and it is easy to see why other forum members are advising caution in interpreting this. It says that in summary Grassley will lift his hold if Irish provision is dropped whereas nowhere in the article prior to that is such a statement seen.

I also remember reading on immigration-law.com that Sens. Vitter and Sessions had objected to the Irish Bill although I could never find a valid media source

Also a lot of this information/lobbying is from early February and we are already in the 2nd half of march with no progress.Lots of legislation is reactive and in an election year it remains to be seen how much interest there is to negotiating and moving this forward

[vickywac]

National Journal article in MSNBC. This is making quite big news in mainstream media.

http://video.msnbc.msn.com/mitchell-reports/46749576

[gs1968]

To vickywac
Thanks for providing us with the link.However this is unlikely to change things much because as we discussed earlier,the dynamics in that story are from early February and much water has flown under the bridge since
I feel that the link below is a bigger story

http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0312/74065.html

The battle for control of the senate is going to be very tight in the forthcoming elections and MA is a key race.The Democrats gave Sen.Brown a victory with the STOCK Act 9yet to be conferenced and signed in to law though) and are unlikely to help him again.Even if Sen.Schumer's Bill is passed,Sen.Brown is going to take credit for garnering the Republican votes to pass the Irish E-3.Sen Schumer is not up for re-election till 2016 and has ample time for getting this done. On the other hand,if the Senate does change hands and Sen.Grassley assumes chairmanship of the Sen.Judiciary Committee, it is going to be even more difficult to get anything like this through committee and passed into law.We will wait and see as usual

[gs1968]

I just came across this article

http://www.irishcentral.com/story/news/periscope/boston-herald-editorial-slams-senator-brown-for-inaction-on-irish-e3-visa-bill-142910915.html

Again a re-hash of what we know already and whether this changes anything is anybody's guess

[Jonty Rhodes]

03/16/2012: Latest News on Sen. Grassley's Ongoing Negotiaion with Senator Brown for Compromise

CNN updates at 07:18 p.m. (EST) of 03/16/2012 as follows:
Beth Levine, communications director for Grassley said he has now extended an offer to move the Brown bill forward. "An up or down vote on Sen. Brown's Irish visa bill would be acceptable to Sen. Grassley with some modifications dealing with the skill level of those receiving an E3 visa, the current visa program the visas would be allotted from, and the inclusion of a sunset on the program," Levine wrote in an e-mail. "Sen. Grassley's staff is still discussing modifications with the sponsors of the bill."

It sounds that under the ongoing pressure, with the whole Republican party at stake in the Senate, not to mention Sen. Brown's own future, in the November election, they must be actively engazing in negotiation to find a break through at least within the Republican group. They are currently under a tremendous pressure. However, it is not clear whether this ongoing nego includes H.R. 3012. Additionally, it is unclear the compromise within the Senate Republican caucus can be acceptable to the Democrats, particularly Sen. Chuck Schumer. Please stay tuned.

http://www.immigration-law.com/

[gcq]

E3 going on its own is good for HR 3012. I suspect it is E3 that is holding down our bill. If it travels on its own and meets it destiny, HR 3012 will have a clearer path.

[longgcque]

What does it mean for HR3012 .... Is it still breathing ?


03/16/2012: Latest News on Sen. Grassley's Ongoing Negotiaion with Senator Brown for Compromise

CNN updates at 07:18 p.m. (EST) of 03/16/2012 as follows:
Beth Levine, communications director for Grassley said he has now extended an offer to move the Brown bill forward. "An up or down vote on Sen. Brown's Irish visa bill would be acceptable to Sen. Grassley with some modifications dealing with the skill level of those receiving an E3 visa, the current visa program the visas would be allotted from, and the inclusion of a sunset on the program," Levine wrote in an e-mail. "Sen. Grassley's staff is still discussing modifications with the sponsors of the bill."

It sounds that under the ongoing pressure, with the whole Republican party at stake in the Senate, not to mention Sen. Brown's own future, in the November election, they must be actively engazing in negotiation to find a break through at least within the Republican group. They are currently under a tremendous pressure. However, it is not clear whether this ongoing nego includes H.R. 3012. Additionally, it is unclear the compromise within the Senate Republican caucus can be acceptable to the Democrats, particularly Sen. Chuck Schumer. Please stay tuned.

http://www.immigration-law.com/

[Jonty Rhodes]

E3 going on its own is good for HR 3012. I suspect it is E3 that is holding down our bill. If it travels on its own and meets it destiny, HR 3012 will have a clearer path.

Not sure if Scott Brown's bill is tied with HR 3012 or not. There is some real confusion about that. But even if it is not tied, I really do not believe that HR 3012 will have a clear path on its own because Chuck Grassley may again try to introduce his H1B reforms in that since that was the main reason he blocked HR 3012 to begin with. I just don't feel that he will give up so easily on that. Let's see what happens next week in senate. It is going to be a crucial week I feel.

[gcq]

Grassleys' hold was expected right from the day the bill was planned. Steve King in House and Grassley in Senate are two known adversaries for any immigration bill. So this would have been taken care already. We saw what happened in house in relation to Steve King's amendments. Even in senate, rule 14 was invoked on the bill to bypass judiciary committee. The only surprise was the Irish waking up adding their pork E3 to HR 3012. If E3 did not show up, HR 3012 would have progressed more than it is now.

[vickywac]

http://http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/senators-push-visa-program-irish-immigrants-critics-call-measure-political-opportunism-article-1.1040788 (http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/senators-push-visa-program-irish-immigrants-critics-call-measure-political-opportunism-article-1.1040788)


Sen. Charles Grassley (R-Iowa) of the Senate Judiciary Committee has a hold on the broader bill, but has offered a vote on just the Irish measure. He and Schumer are negotiating.

Its going to be interesting how this is going to play in coming days.

[abcx13]

http://http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/senators-push-visa-program-irish-immigrants-critics-call-measure-political-opportunism-article-1.1040788 (http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/senators-push-visa-program-irish-immigrants-critics-call-measure-political-opportunism-article-1.1040788)


Its going to be interesting how this is going to play in coming days.

So let's see...the White guys get a special provision carved out for them, but the Browns and the Yellows have to wait. Just like the good ol'e days 'eh.

[qesehmk]

Here is what one supporter says openly.


“Let’s find a place for Irish people like anybody else. The only way to come to America to work at your aunt’s or uncle’s or anywhere else is as undocumented,” said pub owner Ciaran Staunton (http://www.nydailynews.com/topics/Ciaran+Staunton) of the Irish Lobby for Immigration Reform.

EB applicants on other hand are highly educated, come legally and virtully crime free and yet they have to wait 2-10-20 years. This is injustice.


So let's see...the White guys get a special provision carved out for them, but the Browns and the Yellows have to wait. Just like the good ol'e days 'eh.

[chengisk]

http://www.irishcentral.com/news/Senator-Grassley-moves-forward-with-a-proposal-on-E3-visa-bill-143077985.html

Let us see how this goes. E3 being an amendment to H.R.3012 w/sh-ould also mean placing the bundle for a vote in the senate.
There is still time to write to and nudge the local senators to support the bill.

[gs1968]

To Chengisk

Thanks for your comments.However all indications seem to point towards S.2005 from Sen.Brown which does not include 3012 provisions.None of the articles above seem to indicate that 3012 provisions are being negotiated.The last official word from Beth Levine about 3012 seems to be from February 28 unless we can find something more current

http://www.siliconprairienews.com/2012/02/iowa-senator-s-hold-endangering-startup-visa-act

Sen Grassley is being tough on the E-3 Bill also in that he is requiring more stringent guidelines for qualification. The E-3 Irish Bill if passed would amend the INA in such a way that specialty occupation as required by the Australians is not necessary.
I feel that the language is worded and placed carefully to avoid specialty occupation consideration. The words in the Bill are "or solely to perform services as an employee who meets the requirements under section 203(c)(2) if the alien is a national of the Republic of Ireland,' after `Australia'." If you refer to the INA Act 101 here
http://www.uscis.gov/ilink/docView/SLB/HTML/SLB/0-0-0-1/0-0-0-29/0-0-0-101.html
and scroll down to Section E (iii)(21) which is about the middle of the page and add the above clause after Australia then it becomes clear that the specialty occupation is not needed. However some labor attestation still appears to be needed with DHS and DOL but how stringent this will be-I don't know. The H-2 programs have very loose requirements The Republic of Ireland with a population of 6 million does not have a substantial pool of high-skilled immigrants to fill 10,500 visas annually.

I also read that he wants the unused quota of Australian E-3 visas to be used for Irish nationals so as not to increase work visas and also include a sunset date.

After the Republican senators have all these worked out I am not sure if it is even acceptable to the Irish leave alone the Democrats. For this reason, I completely agree with the moderators and other senior forum members that H.R 3012 is actually being hamstrung by the E-3 provisions and has better chances of success on its own merit. It is ironic that a Bill that affects distribution of only 12% of annual LPRs is getting such a difficult time in the Senate.

There are about 8 legislative days left in the Senate before the April Passover/Easter recess and hopefully something positive will happen. Sorry for the long post but it is frustrating that almost 4 months have passed since House passage and there is still no resolution in the senate

[vickywac]

To Chengisk

Thanks for your comments.However all indications seem to point towards S.2005 from Sen.Brown which does not include 3012 provisions.None of the articles above seem to indicate that 3012 provisions are being negotiated.The last official word from Beth Levine about 3012 seems to be from February 28 unless we can find something more current

No rational thoughts on bills among piliticians and everyday the hope on this is slipping away. Interestign to know that the start up bill is waiting to pass thro the committe and look at the momentum of the irish bill.
Peace
vickywac

[chengisk]

Hi gs1968,

Thanks, despite the pessimistic outlook that you have drawn, I have to agree with you. There is basically no interest among the lawmakers to advance HR3012, nor do they have any incentives despite some tech companies lobbying for it. On the other hand the Irish agenda seems to have suddenly started stirring and that I think is basically because of the likes of Boston Globe ridiculing Sen.Brown. The congress and senate have a bad habit of not passing perfectly individual legislation (which is often termed as piece-meal bills) and so very rarely any bill gets thorough without the added baggage. I think it is now become a wait and see if it will happen event. Thanks again for your views and links.

[lalaji]

03/19/2012: Senate Floor to Continue Debates for JOBS Act, H.R.3606

This is the so-called Jumpstart Our Business Starups Act, which the House has already passed. When it comes to the details, there are disagreements between the Republican caucus and the Democratic caucus, but the basic theme of job creation legislation receives attention not only from the Houses in the Congress, but also from the White House, considering its impact on the November national election. We have reported earlier the skeleton of the White House proposal that contained "Per Country Limitation Elimination" in the employment-based immigration statute, which is very much in line with the H.R. 3012. As the H.R. 3012 is trapped with the Irish E-3 visa bill, the immigrant community is closely watching the chances of EB per country limitation removal proposal attached to the JOBS Act legislation through the process of H.R. 3606 amendment in the Senate.

[abcx13]

03/19/2012: Senate Floor to Continue Debates for JOBS Act, H.R.3606

This is the so-called Jumpstart Our Business Starups Act, which the House has already passed. When it comes to the details, there are disagreements between the Republican caucus and the Democratic caucus, but the basic theme of job creation legislation receives attention not only from the Houses in the Congress, but also from the White House, considering its impact on the November national election. We have reported earlier the skeleton of the White House proposal that contained "Per Country Limitation Elimination" in the employment-based immigration statute, which is very much in line with the H.R. 3012. As the H.R. 3012 is trapped with the Irish E-3 visa bill, the immigrant community is closely watching the chances of EB per country limitation removal proposal attached to the JOBS Act legislation through the process of H.R. 3606 amendment in the Senate.

Let's see if I have this straight, so the WH wanted the per country elimination to be put in the Jobs bill as part of HR 3606, but it isn't in there currently. And these guys are hoping that it gets added as an amendment? Fat chance.

[randomax]

Not sure if this has already been mentioned in this thread, but is there an email I can send to family/friends which gives a brief summary of the bill (and any other relevant bills) and has information on how to support it (links to online petitions/letters to congressmen, etc)? Thanks.

[manubhai]

Not sure if this has already been mentioned in this thread, but is there an email I can send to family/friends which gives a brief summary of the bill (and any other relevant bills) and has information on how to support it (links to online petitions/letters to congressmen, etc)? Thanks.

How to support: Meet senators; Call senators; Write to senators; Also follow "action items" that any other group/community suggests, if you wish to, and if their definition and evidence of "supporting" the cause is to your satisfaction.

You can modify the content from this thread to suit your purpose:
http://www.qesehmk.org/forums/showthread.php?284-Content-of-letter-or-petition-to-send-to-your-Senator-for-supporting-HR-3012

Thanks for spreading the word. It DOES make a difference.

[randomax]

I signed the petition and sent letters to senators some time ago, but I think its time to step up the effort and send it to friends across the country

[lalaji]

http://www.irishcentral.com/news/Republican-Senator-Scott-Brown-remains-committed-to-Irish-E3--143626386.html

[lalaji]

From Irish Echo:

http://irishecho.com/?p=70466

[Jonty Rhodes]

From Irish Echo:

http://irishecho.com/?p=70466

Thanks lalaji. Does Sen. Brown's bill include HR 3012 also? Because what we all keep hearing about this bill is it will provide additional 10,500 visas to Irish nationals every year. There has been no mention of HR 3012 anywhere in any article.

[idiotic]

http://www.enewspf.com/latest-news/latest-local/31885-durbin-calls-on-senate-to-pass-irish-e3-visa-bill.html

[gs1968]

Finally,after about 4 months since House Passage there is a brief and passing mention of H.R 3012 provisions on the Senate Floor albeit in the context of the broader E-3 Bill! Whether there is a sincere effort or St.Patrick's Day rhetoric is not clear. As Jonty Rhodes mentions above it is also not clear if what is being discussed includes H.R 3012 provisions. Time is running out before the Easter recess and we are still stuck with the JOBS act unfinished.Cloture has been filed on Sen. Menendez Bill for tax breaks for oil companies and this should pretty much consume the rest of this session till next Friday. The E-3 Bill/H.R 3012/S.1857 or whatever version passes will most likely have to pass by unanimous consent with all objections removed and amendments agreed to as most Senators are not going to be keen on having their vote recorded by Roll Call. We have to watch carefully for end of the day proceedings next Thursday/Friday to see if this happens.My guess is most likely not as Sen.Grassley is a tough man to bend and is not going to give up easily.One can only hope for the best! When the Senate returns in the second half of April the momentum on this Bill will be lost considerably

[lalaji]

From Asst.Majority leader site
http://durbin.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=e34d3178-8db3-4630-92ae-2204402a89b8

[idiotic]

Finally,after about 4 months since House Passage there is a brief and passing mention of H.R 3012 provisions on the Senate Floor albeit in the context of the broader E-3 Bill! Whether there is a sincere effort or St.Patrick's Day rhetoric is not clear. As Jonty Rhodes mentions above it is also not clear if what is being discussed includes H.R 3012 provisions. Time is running out before the Easter recess and we are still stuck with the JOBS act unfinished.Cloture has been filed on Sen. Menendez Bill for tax breaks for oil companies and this should pretty much consume the rest of this session till next Friday. The E-3 Bill/H.R 3012/S.1857 or whatever version passes will most likely have to pass by unanimous consent with all objections removed and amendments agreed to as most Senators are not going to be keen on having their vote recorded by Roll Call. We have to watch carefully for end of the day proceedings next Thursday/Friday to see if this happens.My guess is most likely not as Sen.Grassley is a tough man to bend and is not going to give up easily.One can only hope for the best! When the Senate returns in the second half of April the momentum on this Bill will be lost considerably

Sen. Durbin's floor reference..
http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/D?r112:24:./temp/~r112Mnoskz::

[vishnu]

Interesting that he specifically refers to adding E3 to HR 3012. Also good that he is only taking about legal Irish employment here with no amnesty provisions. Bodes well, but lets wait and see...

[ImmiWoman]

Good morning,

I am a new poster in this forum but I've been following with interest a few of your threads, being an immigrant myself. Actually I want to post a link I fond that hopefully will contribute to this discussion.

"In Washington, Senate bill pushes to aid Irish migrants
Senate bill draws questions, criticism
by Erin Kelly - Mar. 21, 2012 10:34 PM
Republic Washington Bureau"

Source: http://www.azcentral.com/news/articles/2012/03/22/20120322washington-push-aid-irish-migrants.html

[chengisk]

Politicians, primarily from the north east have suddenly come to realize the importance of the Irish block. They need the E-3 before the election to claim the votes. While Massachusetts has a 23% population of Irish descent and Iowa only has 13%. Hence the politics of involving and blocking. Hopefully they will stop the bickering and as Sen.Brown once called it "Pop" the bill.

[lalaji]

Latest news:

03/22/2012: Interesting Report of Arizona Republic on Potential Success of Tri-Senators Nego Leading to Bi-Partisan Passage of Irish E-3 Visa Bill in the Senate

As this reporter speculated earlier this morning, it appears that the negotiation among the three key Senators, Schumer, Grassley, and Brown has been making some in-road to comprise to "probably" to Schumer bill that combines H.R. 3012 and Irish E-3 visa bill. Senator Schumer earlier announced that he was willing to give up illegal Irish relief porttion of his bill and keep just legal Irish E-3 visa provision in his bill. That narrow down to a small difference between Sen. Brown bill and Sen. Schumer bill involving H.R. 3012. Brown bill did not include H.R. 3012. However, Sen. Brown afterwards conceded that he was willing to accept H.R. 3012 as part of the compromise. There was also one report earlier that Sen. Grassley was focusing on the tightening of the eligibility of Irish E-3 visa applicants to advanced level of professionals. Inasmuch as Sen. Grassley would drop his earlier position to add H-1B and L-1 restriction provisions to the bill, there is indeed some chance that the final product of the bi-partisan tri-party compromise can lead to the passage of the bill in the Senate. Please pay attention to the "dynamics" of the on-going compromise in the negotiation. We are trying to connect from dot to dot to assess the development. Please stay tuned to this website for the development of this news.

[abcx13]

Latest news:

03/22/2012: Interesting Report of Arizona Republic on Potential Success of Tri-Senators Nego Leading to Bi-Partisan Passage of Irish E-3 Visa Bill in the Senate

As this reporter speculated earlier this morning, it appears that the negotiation among the three key Senators, Schumer, Grassley, and Brown has been making some in-road to comprise to "probably" to Schumer bill that combines H.R. 3012 and Irish E-3 visa bill. Senator Schumer earlier announced that he was willing to give up illegal Irish relief porttion of his bill and keep just legal Irish E-3 visa provision in his bill. That narrow down to a small difference between Sen. Brown bill and Sen. Schumer bill involving H.R. 3012. Brown bill did not include H.R. 3012. However, Sen. Brown afterwards conceded that he was willing to accept H.R. 3012 as part of the compromise. There was also one report earlier that Sen. Grassley was focusing on the tightening of the eligibility of Irish E-3 visa applicants to advanced level of professionals. Inasmuch as Sen. Grassley would drop his earlier position to add H-1B and L-1 restriction provisions to the bill, there is indeed some chance that the final product of the bi-partisan tri-party compromise can lead to the passage of the bill in the Senate. Please pay attention to the "dynamics" of the on-going compromise in the negotiation. We are trying to connect from dot to dot to assess the development. Please stay tuned to this website for the development of this news.

If HR 3012 passes in the senate with the Irish E3 amendment, does that mean the per-country limits are lifted? Or does it have to go back to the house WITH the E3 amendment? Or does the House have to pass the E3 amendment separately? I.e. is it an all or nothing deal?

[gcq]

If HR 3012 passes in the senate with the Irish E3 amendment, does that mean the per-country limits are lifted? Or does it have to go back to the house WITH the E3 amendment? Or does the House have to pass the E3 amendment separately? I.e. is it an all or nothing deal?
Most of the news being referred are regarding the senate bill introduced by Schumer and Durbin which is a combination provisions of HR 3012 and E3. Technically this is a different bill that starts with "S" which means it originated in Senate. HR 3012 originated in house and is a separate bill. If the senate originated bill is approved by senate, it will have to go house once again.

On the other hand if HR 3012 was approved by senate, it could go directly to president's desk for signing.

Experts correct me if I am wrong.

[gs1968]

To gcq
I agree with you that a Bill with identical language has to pass through both Chambers and then signed into law. I did read the post on immigration-law but I had a hard time understanding what he was trying to convey.It is very unclear as to exactly what bill is in consideration.Senator Durbin made a speech on the Senate Floor with strong emphasis on the Irish angle with only a one-line mention of 3012 provisions.I seemed more like a plea to the Republicans than a forceful and fierce advocation of 3012 provisions. The widely quoted USAtoday article seems to suggest that the wider Bill continues to be blocked in the Senate with a move forward of the Irish provisions only with a few amendments from Senator Grassley.
http://www.usatoday.com/news/washington/story/2012-03-22/irish-immigration-congress/53706766/1

I have no idea if 3012 provisions are holding up the Irish E-3 or vice-versa. The longer this drags on it seems the stronger the opposition will grow from anti-immigrant organizations. I was hoping it would be an easy under-the-radar slam dunk but it is proving to be anything but that.

As far as the process in Congress goes-if the Senate passes E-3 Bill alone obviously it will have to go in entirety to the House to be passed.If the Senate passes H.R 3012 and uses E-3 as an amendment then it has to be reconciled with the House Version.This can happen in one of a few ways.If the House leadership senses no objection to the amendments-the entire Bill is voted on by the House and sent to president.The senate and house can also appoint a conference committee for differences in the Bill to be ironed out. If both Senate and House negotiators can agree to a compromise Bill (usually called a Joint Resolution) then this resolution is voted on in both chambers and becomes the text of the Bill.Only a simple majority is needed to pass and not the 60 vote threshold in the Senate.If the negotiators cannot agree on a compromise the Bill is deemed to have "died" in conference and no further action taken.

On a different note the House passed the Bill 371-0 to allow Israeli E-2 non-immigrant investors visa last week.Sen Schumer is a sponsor of S.921 which is the companion Bill to this in the Senate with 2 Republican co-sponsors.He might attempt to de-link the 3012 from the Irish E-3 and try to pass the Irish/Israeli non-immigrant Bills together.

We must keep up hope that something will happen this week before the Easter Recess. If cloture fails on the Oil Subsidies Bill and Postal Reform Bill then it will open up the rest of the week for the Senate

[Jonty Rhodes]

Roy Beck from NumbersUSA on CNN to discuss Irish E3 Visa

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=k5oTaCjCUZk

[kuku82]

Interesting......

http://www.ndtv.com/article/world/us-senator-working-on-bill-to-allow-more-visas-to-indians-189781?pfrom=home-otherstories

[Jonty Rhodes]

Interesting......

http://www.ndtv.com/article/world/us-senator-working-on-bill-to-allow-more-visas-to-indians-189781?pfrom=home-otherstories

I just read it on NDTV and logged in on forum to post this but then saw that you posted it already. Interesting that Senator Reid and Senator Schumer are so confident about this bill. Hopefully, this time it is a serious matter and not just a political rhetoric to please the Indian lobby.

[gs1968]

To Jonty Rhodes
Thanks for the info.
Where does the article mention about H.R 3012? The contents are very vague.I hope they are talking about the 3012 provisions but reently there was a letter from Indian IT firms to USCIS which has muddied the waters.We have to wait and see.
http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9225521/Indian_U.S._firms_urge_Obama_action_on_visas

[gcq]

To Jonty Rhodes

Indian, U.S. firms urge Obama action on visas (http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9225521/Indian_U.S._firms_urge_Obama_action_on_visas)
What these indian firms don't realize is, it is Obama who is behind these visa refusals.

[Kanmani]

Friends
Kindly continue your discussions on immigration fraud here .......http://www.qesehmk.org/forums/showthread.php?750-Opinion-on-immigration-fraud

[gs1968]

Clearly the Senate has already switched to recess mode.I have copied a link below to the possible activities this week and it appears like there is going to be a non-serious debate with definite failure on the Oil tax subsidies Bill to run out the clock.We still have to watch for passage of our Bills by unanimous consent but there has been virtually no chatter on this on Indian/Irish/Immigration websites this week.
Hope springs eternal!

http://www.dailykos.com/story/2012/03/27/1078072/-Today-in-Congress-House-tries-again-on-transportation-Senate-tries-to-try-on-oil-subsidies?showAll=yes

[JJcalifornian]

Spreading the Rumors....

There is a news that HR3012 would get reintroduced by April-May time frame with minimal changes as part of compromise talk with Sen Grassley. This is just a piece info which I thought to share with, I don't know anything beyond this.

[vizcard]

Spreading the Rumors....

There is a news that HR3012 would get reintroduced by April-May time frame with minimal changes as part of compromise talk with Sen Grassley. This is just a piece info which I thought to share with, I don't know anything beyond this.

Where is this news coming from? link ?

[essenel]

Spreading the Rumors....

There is a news that HR3012 would get reintroduced by April-May time frame with minimal changes as part of compromise talk with Sen Grassley. This is just a piece info which I thought to share with, I don't know anything beyond this.

Can you give us some clue as to where you got this information?

[pakkpk]

With luck, Mr. Grassley might change his position on these issues and, with continued bipartisan efforts, our nation will order business formed immigration policies that serve pursuit expansion in the US.

http://i74.info/the-great-overseas-jobs-creator/

[kuku82]

Unrelated to the below post: H.R.3012 has to be amended anyway before passage to begin the transition rules FY2013 onwards....


Spreading the Rumors....

There is a news that HR3012 would get reintroduced by April-May time frame with minimal changes as part of compromise talk with Sen Grassley. This is just a piece info which I thought to share with, I don't know anything beyond this.

[gs1968]

If the changes are minimal-why not make it and pass it right away?That dose not require much effort or time.We are coming close to 4 months since the House passed the Bill.

[JJcalifornian]

Can you give us some clue as to where you got this information?

I work for a fortune 100 company with more than 70k head count, and subscribed to a mailer relating to immigration. This info was updated by a manager (known for *** advocacy efforts and respected name with in the organization).

[essenel]

I work for a fortune 100 company with more than 70k head count, and subscribed to a mailer relating to immigration. This info was updated by a manager (known for *** advocacy efforts and respected name with in the organization).

Thanks for the info. Hope that it comes true....

[qesehmk]

That's because this may not be about substance. This is about rhetoric and public posturing. Grassley has done his gig to oppose this. Now the time to pass this may be coming.

So if this were to pass - there will be a dog and pony show to position Grassley as the hardliner who negotiated hard. I personally do not know how close the negotiations are.

But basically seems very standard and predictable route.



If the changes are minimal-why not make it and pass it right away?That dose not require much effort or time.We are coming close to 4 months since the House passed the Bill.

[abcx13]

I work for a fortune 100 company with more than 70k head count, and subscribed to a mailer relating to immigration. This info was updated by a manager (known for *** advocacy efforts and respected name with in the organization).
Any chance of you pasting the exact quote?

Thanks

[gs1968]

To Jonty Rhodes and Kuku
Referring to the earlier discussion of the meeting of Senators Reid/Schumer with Mr Sant Singh Chatwal, I came across this article and I feel that this is the bipartisan Bill that they were discussing about and not H.R 3012.Hope I am wrong!

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/nrf-urges-senate-to-approve-bill-to-boost-tourism-by-reducing-visa-delays-2012-03-27

[kuku82]

gs....the article was never about HR3012.....the article was pointed out coz it could mean to help HR3012 indirectly.

Anyway, this bill that Schumer is talking about is S.2233......its contents are not released on THOMAS yet.

Source: Oh Law Firm

[pakkpk]

Heading of your post tells the story behind "This info was updated by a manager (known for *** advocacy efforts and respected name with in the organization)." Just kidding...


Spreading the Rumors....

There is a news that HR3012 would get reintroduced by April-May time frame with minimal changes as part of compromise talk with Sen Grassley. This is just a piece info which I thought to share with, I don't know anything beyond this.

[idiotic]

gs....the article was never about HR3012.....the article was pointed out coz it could mean to help HR3012 indirectly.

Anyway, this bill that Schumer is talking about is S.2233......its contents are not released on THOMAS yet.

Source: Oh Law Firm

Mike Lee (Sponsor of senate version of HR3012) is called as testimony to the hearing of S.2233

[idiotic]

S. 2233: A bill to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to stimulate international tourism to the United States.
http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/112/s2233

[gs1968]

I had held a faint hope albeit wishful that the Senate might surprise us with unanimous passage of one of the myriad Bills with 3012 provisions but things are in cold storage for 3 weeks now. Today marks 4 months since House passage of H.R.3012

[abcx13]

I had held a faint hope albeit wishful that the Senate might surprise us with unanimous passage of one of the myriad Bills with 3012 provisions but things are in cold storage for 3 weeks now. Today marks 4 months since House passage of H.R.3012

I'd thought after the Rule XIV invocation, they'd just file cloture and be done with it. You'd think they could get 60 senators after the amzing bipartisan support this had in the House.

[gcq]

I'd thought after the Rule XIV invocation, they'd just file cloture and be done with it. You'd think they could get 60 senators after the amzing bipartisan support this had in the House.
It could have been the pre-charted route. What complicated it was Irish trying to attach E3 to HR 3012 and Schumer and Co readily agreeing to that. Invoking cloture anyways is a time consuming process. By invoking rule 14, the bill bypassed the judiciary committee. Whether to invoke cloture or clear it through negotiations are the two options at this point.

[abcx13]

It could have been the pre-charted route. What complicated it was Irish trying to attach E3 to HR 3012 and Schumer and Co readily agreeing to that. Invoking cloture anyways is a time consuming process. By invoking rule 14, the bill bypassed the judiciary committee. Whether to invoke cloture or clear it through negotiations are the two options at this point.

Well, let's see. Supposedly now they've agreed to split up the two bills - Irish E3 and HR3012 - and I believe Grassley's objections were more to E3 and trying to reform the H1B program by piggybacking on HR3012. I don't know why they just don't take up the two bills separately and get done with it.

[vizcard]

Well, let's see. Supposedly now they've agreed to split up the two bills - Irish E3 and HR3012 - and I believe Grassley's objections were more to E3 and trying to reform the H1B program by piggybacking on HR3012. I don't know why they just don't take up the two bills separately and get done with it.

Grassley had reservations about 3012 as it stands .. even before this E3 thing started

[essenel]

This article on H.R. 3012 was posted by some user on **. It's a good article. Re-posting it here:

http://www.nationaljournal.com/features/restoration-calls/young-innovative-and-gridlocked-out-20120315

[vizcard]

This article on H.R. 3012 was posted by some user on **. It's a good article. Re-posting it here:

http://www.nationaljournal.com/features/restoration-calls/young-innovative-and-gridlocked-out-20120315

the premise is good but its a badly written article. First they talk about the startup and the entrepreneurs, then they bring in HR3012 which has nothing to do with the issue the entrepreneurs are facing and then they say that even if HR3012 is passed, it won't help the entrepreneurs (which is true)... so why confuse the two issues.

[gs1968]

Information/news about this Bill has almost completely dried up but at least somebody at Microsoft still cares about this Bill

http://www.informationweek.com/news/windows/microsoft_news/232800248

This is the only news alert that has shown up for me in the last 4 days-Thought I would share

[idiotic]

Information/news about this Bill has almost completely dried up but at least somebody at Microsoft still cares about this Bill

http://www.informationweek.com/news/windows/microsoft_news/232800248

This is the only news alert that has shown up for me in the last 4 days-Thought I would share

At least a good thing in retrogression is that the Senators will know the real scale of backlog for EB2IC. Gives something for the lobbyists to show the Senators. I am sure if dates are showing up as May 2010, they may have good trouble in explaining the backlog to them as most of them are not aware of the intricate details why the dates are pushed artifically.

[idiotic]

..I believe Grassley's objections were more to E3 and trying to reform the H1B program by piggybacking on HR3012

Absolutely not. If you read Grassley's amendment he struck out entire HR3012 and added his bill in it with addition of line of increasing country limit to 15% instead of existing 7% for employment categories. That's pretty much it :)

[Mavrick]

After Jobs Act, Case turns focus to immigration

http://www.baltimoresun.com/business/sns-rt-us-usa-jobs-casebre83413u-20120405,0,5980942.story

[abcx13]

After Jobs Act, Case turns focus to immigration

http://www.baltimoresun.com/business/sns-rt-us-usa-jobs-casebre83413u-20120405,0,5980942.story

Doesn't mention anything abt HR3012.

[idiotic]

Doesn't mention anything abt HR3012.

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/statement-from-revolution-ceo-steve-case-on-president-obamas-signing-of-the-jobs-act-2012-04-05

[gs1968]

The Irish E-3 issue is still alive according to Irish Central although the article does not seem to reflect any real progress.

http://www.irishcentral.com/news/Scott-Browns-Irish-E-3-visa-bill-aims-to-right-wrongs-made-by-1965-immigration-ruling-146793745.html

The comments section is interesting in that it claims Lamar Smith intends to oppose it if it reaches the House. Can other forum members provide a link to substantiate this?

[gcq]

The Irish E-3 issue is still alive according to Irish Central although the article does not seem to reflect any real progress.

http://www.irishcentral.com/news/Scott-Browns-Irish-E-3-visa-bill-aims-to-right-wrongs-made-by-1965-immigration-ruling-146793745.html

The comments section is interesting in that it claims Lamar Smith intends to oppose it if it reaches the House. Can other forum members provide a link to substantiate this?

E3 passing house was always an "IF". All what Irish E-3 is doing is slowing down the progress of HR 3012.

[abcx13]

E3 passing house was always an "IF". All what Irish E-3 is doing is slowing down the progress of HR 3012.

I think HR 3012 is dead now.

[vizcard]

I think HR 3012 is dead now.

Based on what ?

[abcx13]

Based on what ?

Based on the fact that there has been NO movement for the past three months and news has died down over the past two weeks.

[jackbrown_890]

I think we should start pushing for this bill again for next few days. Senate will be back in session from Monday. Start contacting senators from your area (call/write letters/emails/twit/FB/ etc....even talk to house reps after talking to a senator to push for this bill..all we need is few republican senators support.
Since Eb2 I/C has moved back to 2007, use that as a talking point.
Link to Senators : http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm
Thank you

[vizcard]

Based on the fact that there has been NO movement for the past three months and news has died down over the past two weeks.

Considering the political climate, priorities (JOBS bill, etc.) and just the manuveuring, I wouldn't say its dead. No news is good news in this regard.

[abcx13]

Considering the political climate, priorities (JOBS bill, etc.) and just the manuveuring, I wouldn't say its dead. No news is good news in this regard.

I think you're being over-optimistic. If some compromise deal was to be reached, it would have been reached by now. The fact that nobody has been even talking about doesn't bode well.

[vizcard]

I think you're being over-optimistic. If some compromise deal was to be reached, it would have been reached by now. The fact that nobody has been even talking about doesn't bode well.

I might be optimistic by nature. But given the facts, my opinion is that it is not "dead". It may be on its way there but I don't believe it's dead right NOW.

[jackbrown_890]

CRS report - Interesting report - don't forget to check page 16 - I am not sure if this will be any help to 3012 or not.
http://www.fas.org/sgp/crs/homesec/RL32235.pdf

[abcx13]

CRS report - Interesting report - don't forget to check page 16 - I am not sure if this will be any help to 3012 or not.
http://www.fas.org/sgp/crs/homesec/RL32235.pdf

Interesting report - too bad nothing has happened since when it was published. Was also interesting to see the long history of fruitless attempts at reforming LPR immigration.

[idiotic]

I might be optimistic by nature. But given the facts, my opinion is that it is not "dead". It may be on its way there but I don't believe it's dead right NOW.

You are not alone. I am with you on this :)

[gs1968]

Not to let this thread die,here is an update

http://www.irishcentral.com/news/Hopes-are-dimming--for-passage-of-Irish-E3-visa-bill-in-Congress-148163085.html

Various forum members have felt in the past that if this issue is laid to rest then the 3012 Bill can be tackled stand alone and maybe there might be some movement

I also had another story on my news alert which I did not upload earlier and how recent these items in this story are is unclear but it is dated April 13-

http://www.nationalreview.com/articles/295897/amnesty-irish-immigrants-brian-bolduc

It does appear like Senator Grassley is not going to budge on this one and I am not sure where the momentum/impetus is going to come from to pass the 3012 Bill.
No mention/updates on Senate Floor/log recently

Hope springs eternal

[randomax]

Agenda for the weekend, compose two emails: one for Indian friends/college buddies/family and another for american friends asking them to sign the petition and forward to anyone who supports the bill. I guess its the least that can be done on this front. I feel there are probably a lot of people out there who have gotten their green cards and have no idea that such a bill is being considered. Although I already did send a similar mail before, I am going to target a wider audience this time around.

[idiotic]

Agenda for the weekend, compose two emails: one for Indian friends/college buddies/family and another for american friends asking them to sign the petition and forward to anyone who supports the bill. I guess its the least that can be done on this front. I feel there are probably a lot of people out there who have gotten their green cards and have no idea that such a bill is being considered. Although I already did send a similar mail before, I am going to target a wider audience this time around.

Does anyone know how do we support organizations like TechNet who are lobbying for the bill? Its pretty clear our Indian friends who owns desi sweatshops will not join for any such effort. I am sure there are right minded Indians out there owning business, or in politics etc. Are there any to mobilize those Indian owned firms who will help support TechNet?

[abcx13]

Does anyone know how do we support organizations like TechNet who are lobbying for the bill? Its pretty clear our Indian friends who owns desi sweatshops will not join for any such effort. I am sure there are right minded Indians out there owning business, or in politics etc. Are there any to mobilize those Indian owned firms who will help support TechNet?

I've been thinking about this. perhaps we can write to pro-immigrant journalists like Tom Friedman or Fareed Zakaria? Fareed is Indian too.

[abcx13]

Oh, and FWIW, I checked ** after ages and earlier this month they claimed that they are still lobbying behind the scenes.

[qesehmk]

Fareed Zakaria is the son of Rafeeq Zakaria - ex-education minister of Maharashtra. He is a mumbaikar!

On the main topic - I think if you feel passionate about something then do it. People who throw their weight behind an issue - do not do so immediately. They will wait to see whether there is momentum behind it. And when you have momentum - people will come and join you without you asking them to (aka "Ramdev Joining Anna"-style).

So if you feel passionate about something just do it.


I've been thinking about this. perhaps we can write to pro-immigrant journalists like Tom Friedman or Fareed Zakaria? Fareed is Indian too.

[randomax]

Content of email that I am thinking of sending. Feel free to suggest changes. I have taken most of the material from manubhais thread on this issue.

I need one or two articles that highlight why this bill makes sense, any suggestions? Thanks.


"Hi All - I don't usually send mass emails but feel this one is worthy of your time. I am writing to you to ask you for your support for H.R. 3012 - Fairness for High-Skilled Immigrants Act. The highlights of this bill are as follows:

1. This bill does NOT increase the number of immigrants allowed in the United States.
2. This bill eliminates an archaic provision of the current employment based immigration law that discriminates the amount of time an employment based applicant needs to wait based on his country of birth.
3. This bill will have no impact on the diversity of the immigrant pool (much less the diversity of the population of United States) because it only impacts a small percentage of the total immigrant pool entering United States.
4. This bill is a product of patriotic minds on both sides of the aisle working together to produce small, beneficial results for the US economy. It has thus passed the House of Representatives with a 96% approval - a rare feat in today's times.

It is currently stuck in the Senate because other provisions which actually increase the number of visas available for people from certain countries are being added to the bill. If you support this bill, I strongly urge you to write to your congressman/congresswoman requesting they put their weight behind it:

OpenCongress: http://www.opencongress.org/bill/112-s1857/
S. 1857 is HR 3012's companion bill in the Senate.
Please click on the link, and then click the "support" button that appears on the right side of your screen. Submit your address/contact information and then create a login. Note that an activation email will be sent to you and until you click on the link in the email, the letter WILL NOT BE SENT. This process should not take more than 5 minutes of your time.

I am attaching a letter at the bottom of this email that can be pasted on the opencongress page. It also gives more detail about what this bill entails. For those interested, the following articles highlight why this bill is needed:



Please forward this to anyone who you think would support this bill. Thanks for your time. "

[vizcard]

Content of email that I am thinking of sending. Feel free to suggest changes. I have taken most of the material from manubhais thread on this issue.

I need one or two articles that highlight why this bill makes sense, any suggestions? Thanks.


"Hi All - I don't usually send mass emails but feel this one is worthy of your time. I am writing to you to ask you for your support for H.R. 3012 - Fairness for High-Skilled Immigrants Act. The highlights of this bill are as follows:

1. This bill does NOT increase the number of immigrants allowed in the United States.
2. This bill eliminates an archaic provision of the current employment based immigration law that discriminates the amount of time an employment based applicant needs to wait based on his country of birth.
3. This bill will have no impact on the diversity of the immigrant pool (much less the diversity of the population of United States) because it only impacts a small percentage of the total immigrant pool entering United States.
4. This bill is a product of patriotic minds on both sides of the aisle working together to produce small, beneficial results for the US economy. It has thus passed the House of Representatives with a 96% approval - a rare feat in today's times.

It is currently stuck in the Senate because other provisions which actually increase the number of visas available for people from certain countries are being added to the bill. If you support this bill, I strongly urge you to write to your congressman/congresswoman requesting they put their weight behind it:

OpenCongress: http://www.opencongress.org/bill/112-s1857/
S. 1857 is HR 3012's companion bill in the Senate.
Please click on the link, and then click the "support" button that appears on the right side of your screen. Submit your address/contact information and then create a login. Note that an activation email will be sent to you and until you click on the link in the email, the letter WILL NOT BE SENT. This process should not take more than 5 minutes of your time.

I am attaching a letter at the bottom of this email that can be pasted on the opencongress page. It also gives more detail about what this bill entails. For those interested, the following articles highlight why this bill is needed:



Please forward this to anyone who you think would support this bill. Thanks for your time. "

Don't mention S.1857. It'll confuse the issue.

[randomax]

Don't mention S.1857. It'll confuse the issue.

Is this for real, only 221 people have supported the bill on opencongress???

Sent out the email, but removed point 3 from the earlier email.

[vizcard]

Is this for real, only 221 people have supported the bill on opencongress???

Sent out the email, but removed point 3 from the earlier email.

I'm not surprised. The focus has been HR3012. If that gets killed, then someone will bring up S1857 again.

[mniwas]

Perhaps we can write to pro-immigrant journalists like Tom Friedman or Fareed Zakaria? Fareed is Indian too.
--------------------
"Be careful what you wish for, you just might get it"

Guys, I hope you know what you are doing... HR3012 can only pass without much attention !!... You don't want to attract attention to this bill... even if means that it dies a slow, painful death. It will come up again later. Let behind the scenes lobby do its thing.

Do you realize what will Lou Dobbs and everyone else who are against immigration will do... if this story by Fareed Zakaria catches on?

I urge you guys not to do go to the general media. This story should remain within pro-immigration circles only. It is best for all of us.

[gcq]

Grassley's latest "concern". ( Look in comments section for some funny comments)
Chuck Grassley: Were the Secret Service prostitutes Russian spies? (http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/ticket/chuck-grassley-were-secret-prostitutes-russian-spies-183203257.html;_ylt=AnN8hWsHOsb4FRzMoPUkrems0NUE;_ ylu=X3oDMTNsbWxiZm1nBG1pdANUb3BTdG9yeSBGUARwa2cDZD g2MDc2ZTYtNWM5ZC0zNTU2LWIxZDMtMDY0MTgyOGRkMGU0BHBv cwM0BHNlYwN0b3Bfc3RvcnkEdmVyAzhkMmFlYmYwLThlNGEtMT FlMS1iZjY3LTc0OGVkNTE2Mzk5Mw--;_ylg=X3oDMTFrM25vcXFyBGludGwDdXMEbGFuZwNlbi11cwRw c3RhaWQDBHBzdGNhdAMEcHQDc2VjdGlvbnMEdGVzdAM-;_ylv=3)

[abcx13]

Just curious, which was the last non-trivial immigration bill passed?

[vizcard]

Just curious, which was the last non-trivial immigration bill passed?

I don't know if it was the last but it was significant - AC21.

[abcx13]

I don't know if it was the last but it was significant - AC21.

Wow, 12 years ago. It's amazing that Congress is so feckless that they've been unable to fix high-skilled immigration since then - in good economic times and in bad, under Reps and Dems, etc.

[A_Tech_Softie]

A new bill was introduced on 5/15/2012 by U.S. Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary’s Immigration, Refugees, and Border Security Subcommittee.

Sen. John Cornyn's Website link for the new bill:
http://www.cornyn.senate.gov/public/...8-c5df1c4313a4

Sen. John Cornyn's Website link for the STAR Act:
http://www.cornyn.senate.gov/public/...8-c5df1c4313a4

STAR Act (PDF):
http://www.cornyn.senate.gov/public/...f-535ae95f39ed

[abcx13]

A new bill was introduced on 5/15/2012 by U.S. Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary’s Immigration, Refugees, and Border Security Subcommittee.

Sen. John Cornyn's Website link for the new bill:
http://www.cornyn.senate.gov/public/...8-c5df1c4313a4

Sen. John Cornyn's Website link for the STAR Act:
http://www.cornyn.senate.gov/public/...8-c5df1c4313a4

STAR Act (PDF):
http://www.cornyn.senate.gov/public/...f-535ae95f39ed

From http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2012-05-16/news/31726775_1_immigration-reform-highly-skilled-foreign-born-workers-number-of-temporary-visas:


A Senate Democratic aide said Democrats prefer to address the high-tech visa question in the larger context of immigration reform "rather than cherry-pick certain workers."

That's such a crock of shit. I think the Democrats are actually as bad as the Republicans when it comes to immigration reform. Cherry-picking "certain high-qualified workers" will clearly benefit the nation the most instead of some random DREAMers or the diversity visa recipients. And everyone knows that CIR is NOT going to happen, so nothing happens and the status quo stays as it does with everything else these days. There's more damn Irish in this country than in the whole of Irleand, and yet they are eligible for diversity visas.

Nobody is willing to admit it, but this is nothing but racism in another form. It probably doesn't help that Indians/Chinese don't 'integrate' as easily as Europeans.

[gs1968]

Another Bill to be introduced with H.R 3012 provisions
From the Richmond Times

"WASHINGTON, D.C. --

In an unlikely alliance, Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., will today join with tea-party favorite Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., in introducing legislation to build on the Jobs Act signed into law earlier this year.

Joined by Sens. Christopher Coons, D-Del., and Jerry Moran, R-Kan., Warner and Rubio are rolling out the Startup Act 2.0, aimed at helping new businesses add to their payrolls and jump-start the still-ailing economy.

"Eighty percent of all the new jobs that have been created in the last 20 years have been created by new businesses," Warner said Monday in a phone interview.

While the startups bill passed earlier this year eased access to capital for fledgling businesses, the new bill would take a multipronged approach to helping them gain access to talent.

The legislation's core component is the creation of two new visas for legal immigrants: an "entrepreneur's visa" to allow immigrants creating jobs to stay put and a "STEM visa" for U.S.-educated foreign students who graduate with a master's or Ph.D. in science, technology, engineering or mathematics.

"You read about Microsoft moving thousands of research jobs to China and India because they can't hire enough Americans in those fields," Warner said. "Why would we go out and train some of the world's best and brightest and then send them home if we can't fill those jobs with Americans? … This is to keep these jobs here."

The bill also would eliminate the per-country caps for employment-based immigrant visas.

A few of its other provisions are:

making permanent the exemption of capital-gains taxes on the sale of certain small-business stock held for at least five years;

creating a targeted research and development tax credit for businesses less than five years old and with less than $5 million in annual receipts;

using existing federal funding to support taxpayer-funded university initiatives designed to bring research to the marketplace more quickly;

requiring all government agencies to conduct a cost-benefit analysis of all proposed rules and regulations with an economic impact of $100 million or more."

[randomax]

I guess this bill does not increase family based GCs so should be more palatable to republicans - but less so to democrats?

[gs1968]

To Randomax
I was just practising due diligence and was reporting what had happened yesterday.The Bill is a mixture of features of 2 already existing Bills S.1866 (11/15/11) also known as the AGREE Act and S.1965 (12/8/2011) also known as the Start Up Act 0f 2011. These Bills have not made much headway and the 4 principal Senators involved in this Bill were also primary sponsors of the previous legislations. In fairness S.1965 did get a hearing in March but has not been taken up by Committee or reported. Also because it involves so many issues it may have to go through additional committees including judiciary before being placed on the Calendar. I think the 3012 provisions got included as these were part of the AGREE Act. The main problem with the new Bill is that it incorporates the provisions from S.1965 for creating 2 new visa categories for STEM graduates (55000 annually) and Entreprenuers (75000 annually) for a total additonal visa count of 130000 annually. This may be the main contentious issue as there are other Bills which have no increase in total immigration which are also struggling to make headway.

[randomax]

Thanks for the explanation GS1968, that makes sense.

[immitime]

Bill Bill everywhere but nothing seems to be passing.

Our H.R. 3012 story is a triangular story... from the news which is coming out for the past several months.

1. Sen.Grassley's Hold

2. Sen.Schumer's intervention to add E-3 propsal.. backed by Sen Brown

3. Sen.Harry Reid is not interested to pass any immigration bill without his DREAM Act.

if you ask Sen.Chuck Schumer he would say, all because of sen.Grassley's hold.

if you ask Sen.Grassley. he would say, I am ready to lift the hold provided Sen.Schumer is not adding any E-3 provision to the bill. Sen.Brown already given up and do not know what to do now.

if you ask Sen.Harry Reid. he will always say COMPREHENSIVE COMPREHENSIVE!

We should wait for the fall. to know the final out come of this Great Political football results.

Still keeping positive vibes about our H.R.3012. and strongly believe that it will be law by end of this year!

[Mavrick]

Do you think HR 3012 have that long shelf life? I hope it does.


Bill Bill everywhere but nothing seems to be passing.

Our H.R. 3012 story is a triangular story... from the news which is coming out for the past several months.

1. Sen.Grassley's Hold

2. Sen.Schumer's intervention to add E-3 propsal.. backed by Sen Brown

3. Sen.Harry Reid is not interested to pass any immigration bill without his DREAM Act.

if you ask Sen.Chuck Schumer he would say, all because of sen.Grassley's hold.

if you ask Sen.Grassley. he would say, I am ready to lift the hold provided Sen.Schumer is not adding any E-3 provision to the bill. Sen.Brown already given up and do not know what to do now.

if you ask Sen.Harry Reid. he will always say COMPREHENSIVE COMPREHENSIVE!

We should wait for the fall. to know the final out come of this Great Political football results.

Still keeping positive vibes about our H.R.3012. and strongly believe that it will be law by end of this year!

[A_Tech_Softie]

HR 3012:
1) Points For: Employment based should not restrict individual countries
2) Points Against: Punishes ROWs by pushing them behind the queue
3) Middle Ground: Increase Per Country limits from 7 to 25%; This makes everyone happy and helps address immediate concern of many ICs;

STAR Act:
1) Points For: This would greatly help EB2-IC from STEM fields as it brings in more visa numbers from a category thus helping address US economy issues
2) Points Against: Diversity Visa is a tool used to reduce illegal immigration as well as a tool to bring in low-cost unskilled labor force in US
3) Middle Ground: Reduce Diversity Visa numbers from 55000 to something more meaningful like 20000. Allocate the reduced numbers to EB categories: 140000 + 35000 = 175000
4) Personal Opinion: This is just a political show and this would go no where. Similar bils have rusted in the House in 110th as well as 111th Congress sessions. 2012 is an election year and everyone knows nothing about immigration improvement would happen in this year.

SMART Act:
This simply would not fly as it calls for increasing the total number of legal immigrations to US.

Old Referrence Article on Visa Numbers:
http://immigrationroad.com/visa-bull...it-and-cap.php

Total Family Based Green Cards: 480,000 / Year
Total Employment Based Green Cards: 140,000 / Year
Total Diversity Based Green Cards: 55,000 / Year

Points not very apparent in the above classification:
1) Family Based == "What US Citizens Want"
2) Employment Based == "What Employers Want"
3) Diversity Based == "All other reasons which cannot be truly justified" (Aka low-cost unskilled labor)

Points that policy makers don't get:
1) Family Based => Good chunk gets employed in US
2) Employment Based => Unfairly gets the heat of labor policies
3) Diversity Based => Many skilled ROWs can apply through this

In my opinion there are a few things which can be done by the Policy makers:
1) Mandate EB-ROWs who can apply through Diversity Visa MUST apply first through Diversity Visa. If that doesn't work out, apply in regular EB categories keeping the original priority date (hence preferrence in getting green card sooner).
2) EB5 should NOT be classified under EB category at all. Foreign investors/business starters are not "looking for employment" in US.
3) Stricter EB categories: EB1 > EB2 > EB3; Thus, all visa allocations MUST be done in that order; This one would raise red flags but its the right thing to do;
Rationale for (3):
Stricter EB categories would mean:
a) EB2-IC > EB3-ROW; Thus, visa allocations would be done to EB2-IC before EB3-ROW;
b) EB3 to EB2 porting becomes necessary as no visas would get allocated to EB3 until EB2 queue is addressed
4) US Citizenship: This forever waiting time on green card queue by people of IC origin should be recognized by US government as valid stay that counts towards US Citizenship requirements;

[Mavrick]

Source - immigration-law.com

STARTUP Act, S.3217, Introduced in the Senate on 05/22/2012 by Five (5) Senators (Bi-Partisan)

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), cosponsored by four other Senators, Mark Warner (D-Va.), along with Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) and Chris Coons (D-Del.), and Sen. Blunt, introduced yesterday Startup Act 2.0 – bipartisan legislation that picks up where the JOBS Act left off by doing more to jumpstart the economy through the creation and growth of new businesses. Startup Act 2.0 builds upon the original Startup Act, introduced by Sens. Moran and Warner in December 2011, and the AGREE Act, introduced by Sens. Coons and Rubio in November 2011.
Startup Act 2.0 includes the following provisions:

Creates a new STEM visa so that U.S.-educated foreign students, who graduate with a master’s or Ph.D. in science, technology, engineering or mathematics, can receive a green card and stay in this country where their talent and ideas can fuel growth and create American jobs;

Creates an Entrepreneur’s Visa for legal immigrants, so they can remain in the United States, launch businesses and create jobs;

Eliminates the per-country caps for employment-based immigrant visas – which hinder U.S. employers from recruiting the top-tier talent they need to grow;

Makes permanent the exemption of capital gains taxes on the sale of startup stock held for at least five years – so investors can provide financial stability at a critical juncture of firm growth;

Creates a targeted research and development tax credit for young startups less than five years old and with less than $5 million in annual receipts. This R&D credit is designed to allow startups to offset employee taxes – freeing up resources to help these young companies expand and create jobs;

Uses existing federal R&D funding to support university initiatives designed to bring cutting-edge research to the marketplace more quickly where it can propel economic growth;

Requires all government agencies to conduct a cost-benefit analysis of all proposed “major rules” with an economic impact of $100 million or more. This new requirement will help determine the efficacy of regulations and their potential impact on the formation and growth of new businesses; and

Directs the U.S. Department of Commerce to assess state and local policies that aid in the development of new businesses. Through the publication of reports on new business formation and the entrepreneurial environment, lawmakers will be better equipped to encourage entrepreneurship with the most successful policies.

Please note that this bill includes elimination of per country limit for employment-based immigrant visas, which is currently stuck in the Senate in the form of H.R. 3012. Please also note that one of the co-sponsors is Senator Marco Rubio who is expected to introduce a watered-down DREAM bill in the Senate soon. The immigrant community was curious whether Senator Rubio will tie two bills (STARTUP bill and DREAM bill) together to make both bills successfully pass the Congress, but report indicates that Senator Rubio wants to see each of these two bills go on its separate and own path and separate merit. Hmm..... Interesting. Please stay tuned for the full text of the bill.

[gs1968]

To immitime,randomax and others

Did this really happen? How are they going to find time to work on the STARTUP ACT 2.0 if there are more important Bills like the one below from yesterday to be addressed?

"Discharged the Banking committee and passed S.2367, a bill to strike the word “lunatic” from Federal law, and for other purposes."

[immitime]

gs,

If we can believe this... below statement on Irish echo site stated yesterday.[link below]

But now, Schumer staffers are looking at a new bid for House of Representatives backing that would potentially see an E3 standing on its own feet --and not attached to any “country caps” bill.

http://irishecho.com/?p=71868

And combining the previous news or statement from Sen.Grassley.

if you can read in between the news coming out. Now Schumer and Brown stopped adding amendments to H.R.3012 and Grassley is ready to lift the hold provided there is no Irish E-3 provisions added. Please see below.

See Grassley's exact wording on National Journal article approximately 2 months back.

“It’s the only immigration bill that’s going to be around for two years. So if you want to get some reforms, you take every opportunity you can to take an immigration bill and [fix] other things wrong with immigration.” —Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa, on the Chaffetz bil
http://www.nationaljournal.com/features/restoration-calls/young-innovative-and-gridlocked-out-20120315

So now it is all set as per the news coming out. Only thing Senators should act!

So now is the time to pass H.R. 3012... at least if not this Summer by late fall.

That is why positively HR 3012 should be law soon! Praying for all of us .

[abcx13]

gs,

If we can believe this... below statement on Irish echo site stated yesterday.[link below]

But now, Schumer staffers are looking at a new bid for House of Representatives backing that would potentially see an E3 standing on its own feet --and not attached to any “country caps” bill.

http://irishecho.com/?p=71868

And combining the previous news or statement from Sen.Grassley.

if you can read in between the news coming out. Now Schumer and Brown stopped adding amendments to H.R.3012 and Grassley is ready to lift the hold provided there is no Irish E-3 provisions added. Please see below.

See Grassley's exact wording on National Journal article approximately 2 months back.

“It’s the only immigration bill that’s going to be around for two years. So if you want to get some reforms, you take every opportunity you can to take an immigration bill and [fix] other things wrong with immigration.” —Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa, on the Chaffetz bil
http://www.nationaljournal.com/features/restoration-calls/young-innovative-and-gridlocked-out-20120315

So now it is all set as per the news coming out. Only thing Senators should act!

So now is the time to pass H.R. 3012... at least if not this Summer by late fall.

That is why positively HR 3012 should be law soon! Praying for all of us .

In our dreams. I think Grassley was just posturing and has no intention of releasing the HR3012 hold. I think it's dead.

[immitime]

In our dreams. I think Grassley was just posturing and has no intention of releasing the HR3012 hold. I think it's dead.

Politics won't work that way.. As we Think!... The Bill H.R 3012 is valid until the present Elected Senate session is Valid. So obviously it is not dead at present. This bill is kept pending for Election--(bipartisan) Politics! And everyone knows this bill is non-controversial and it will pass in the Senate without much issues, sometimes with unanimous voice votes. Now Mr.Grass Uncle came out with a Bill S.3245 now Congressmen Chaffetz can bargain with Guncle for his bill HR 3012, Otherwise Tea party supporting Republican Senators can hold S.3245 Bill.. so that is an option. There are lot of other options & opportunities in Politics!.. Things can change within a day!!! Another turn around that can happen is as a Bipartisan bill there is another bill introduced in Senate S.3217, which includes the same provisions as HR 3012. So each Senator is aware of the content of the HR 3012, and it should be law soon!

Unfortunately, Hypocrites, scoundrals, money laundrers, and uneducated lots are more in Politics nowadays--- Otherwise our life would have been easier!(this is applicable to any politican from any country--if you analyze)..

so no point in conclusion that bill is dead.. because that is only a non-verifiable belief for now!

[Mavrick]

Politics won't work that way.. AS we Think!... The Bill is valid until the the present Elected Senate session is Valid. So obviously it is not dead at present. This bill has kept in pending for Election--(bipartisan) Politics! Now Mr.Grass Uncle came out with a Bill now in the Senate. Congressmen Chaffetz can bargain with him for his bill Otherwise Tea party supporting Republicans Senators can hold his Bill.. so that is an option. There are lot of other options in Politics!.. Unfortunately, Hypocrites, scoundrals and uneducated lots are more in Politics nowadays---(this is applicable to any politican from any country--if you analyze).. so no point in conclusion that bill is dead.. because that is only a non-varifiable belief for now!

I have to agree with Immitime - anything might happen. Look at the 3 bills below - they are some way related to employment-based immigration

S. 3217 Startup Act 2.0, Sen. Moran's STEM legislation with elimination of employment-based immigration per country limits
S. 3192 Smart Jobs Act, Sens. Alexander and Coons STEM bill
S. 3835 Star Act of 2012 Sen. Cornyn's STEM bill with elimination of diversity immigration.

[qesehmk]

Guys - realistically - and this is just my "opinion" - nothing will happen between now and november election. The president can't take a chance on a hot topic. So even if both congress and senate sign it - obama may not necessarily sign it. All this bill creation frenzie IMHO is political posturing and pandering.

The good news otherwise is - the demand is substantially lower than usual years and so EB2IC will continue to see shorter approvals times (3-4 years as opposed to 5 years - PERM to GC times).

[Nov2010]

Teddy & Gurus,

Based on the latest 485 inventory can we predict how the PD shall move if HR3012 becomes law of the land?

[Mavrick]

Q,

I sincerely hope your prediction comes true - Coming this from you makes me feel much more comfortable.


Guys - realistically - and this is just my "opinion" - nothing will happen between now and november election. The president can't take a chance on a hot topic. So even if both congress and senate sign it - obama may not necessarily sign it. All this bill creation frenzie IMHO is political posturing and pandering.

The good news otherwise is - the demand is substantially lower than usual years and so EB2IC will continue to see shorter approvals times (3-4 years as opposed to 5 years - PERM to GC times).

[cbordu_111]

I think there is also a general concensus that there is no chance of HR 3012 passing this year, in fact I would be surprised if it even passes the next year! Not to sound negative but given the existing political sceanrio I don't see how or why Senator Grassley wold take his hold off this.

[mniwas]

---------------------------------
The good news otherwise is - the demand is substantially lower than usual years and so EB2IC will continue to see shorter approvals times (3-4 years as opposed to 5 years - PERM to GC times).
---------------------
I don't understand. There are 100,000 visas for EB2 and EB1 combined (ignoring EB4 and 5 because they are so few). The inventory demand is 16K for EB1 and 60K for EB2. Even considering unfiled applications. EB2 should become current in about 1.5 years. I don't understand how you people are predicting 3-4 years.

I am EB3. I waiting for EB2 to be current and then spillover to EB3 :-) Too optimistic I guess.

[vizcard]

As someone who is completely oblivious to the happenings between the movers and shakers behind the scene, the meteoric rise of HR3012 was more surprising. The fact that this bill has been presumably *forgotten* is *not* surprising - this happens to most immigration bills anyway regardless of political climate.

HR3012 was the victim of its fast success, because the Irish E3 impeded its progress substantially. In the hindsight, E3 was a hindrance than an ally. However by the recent reports, E3 is now separated from HR3012, so there is a chance that the bill may be brought on the Senate floor.

Grassley is a dangerous senator too. Usually for non controversial bills, Senate will not dare invoking cloture, because then it becomes a political hot potato, and the general public will turn extremely anti immigrant (as if they are not enough already). However reports are there that Grassley is willing to compromise. I don't know about their accuracy.

In the end, this is still a very clever bill. It has something for both Democrats and Republicans, and members of the Congress may be willing to pass the bill in order to tell their constituents that *something* was done. I don't yet believe the bill is dead. I think by early August, we can pass the judgment.

The bill is on the Senate calendar 293. I just don't know how to translate the Senate Calendar to normal human calendars.

[manubhai]

CNBC Poll: Does the U.S. Have a Shortage of High-Skilled Workers?

Go click on Yes. Does NOT require a login or registration.

It don't matter whether clicking in the poll will help or change anything or not. But some one like Larry Kudlow or Cramer might end up speaking a sentence or two on these.

Link: http://www.cnbc.com/id/47444489

And good to see people still talking about HR3012. Keep the itch alive. We don't know which bill and when turns into a law. As Q said, it is all politics, but that doesn't mean all hope is lost.

[manubhai]

CNBC Poll: Does the U.S. Have a Shortage of High-Skilled Workers?

Go click on Yes. Does NOT require a login or registration.

Link: http://www.cnbc.com/id/47444489

[qesehmk]

mniwas - EB2I will never become current. So please give up that hope and switch to EB2. Your analysis of numbers is a bit simplistic. The ROW and EB1 and all other demand keeps pouring in every year every month. So even as you remove old backlog - new backlog gets built up and effectively SOFAD is limited. That's why 3-4 years is what it will take going forward and not 5 months! Hope this helps.


I don't understand. There are 100,000 visas for EB2 and EB1 combined (ignoring EB4 and 5 because they are so few). The inventory demand is 16K for EB1 and 60K for EB2. Even considering unfiled applications. EB2 should become current in about 1.5 years. I don't understand how you people are predicting 3-4 years.

I am EB3. I waiting for EB2 to be current and then spillover to EB3 :-) Too optimistic I guess.


On other note - guys, do vote on the CNBC poll and vote "Yes"!!

[immitime]

HALT AMERICA'S DECLINE BY WELCOMING SKILLED AND ENTREPRENEURIAL IMMIGRANTS

http://blog.cyrusmehta.com/2012/05/halt-americas-decline-by-welcoming.html

While the chances of this bill [Startup act] passing in the current partisan political climate, prior the 2012 Presidential elections remain remote, one can still be surprised. After all, immigration ought to cut across partisan lines, and our elected representatives need to enact sound immigration proposals for the good of the country and the world.

[gcq]

HALT AMERICA'S DECLINE BY WELCOMING SKILLED AND ENTREPRENEURIAL IMMIGRANTS

http://blog.cyrusmehta.com/2012/05/halt-americas-decline-by-welcoming.html

While the chances of this bill [Startup act] passing in the current partisan political climate, prior the 2012 Presidential elections remain remote, one can still be surprised. After all, immigration ought to cut across partisan lines, and our elected representatives need to enact sound immigration proposals for the good of the country and the world.
Another good article by Cyrus Mehta !

[gs1968]

Some new hope maybe?

http://beverlyhillsimmigrationlaw.blogspot.com/2012/05/smith-griffin-seek-to-ease-path-for.html

Can somebody enlighten us about who the other 2 Republican Senators are that are opposing 3012?

[gcq]

In another sign of a thaw, Sen. Charles E. Grassley, R-Iowa, said last week that he is ready to drop his hold on a bipartisan House bill (HR 3012) that would lift the per-country limits on green cards. That would reduce the backlog of green card applicants from countries where demand for the visas is high, such as India or China.

Grassley said he was able to include language tightening the requirements for temporary work permits known as H-1B visas. But two other Republican senators oppose the legislation and could block it should Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., attempt to bring it up.

We didn't hear this news from elsewhere. I don't think lawmakers supporting HR3012 will support grassley's H1B dreams. If it were added to HR3012, it will have to go to house where many republican reps would oppose the H1B component and the bill will die there.

[gs1968]

To gcq
My thoughts are along the same lines as yours. I did an exhaustive google news search for more information about Sen.Grassley's hold using every possible keyword but found no additional information. The article itself does not clearly say which Bill he is planning to add it to. The Congressional Daily Digest does not show any new amendments being submitted. I usually rely on the AILA website which reported the first set of amendments back in December and they are quiet on this. If the news of the hold being ready to be lifted is true,the blogs would have lit up with this information by now. On a different note,the proposed amendments which he has championed for quite a while are so punitive that the tech lobby is not going to like it.Having held the Bill for so long he will ensure that the final version will include these restrictions and this is worrying as you said because the Bill may die in conference.On a different note HR 3012 may be the vehicle for much broader EB reform including STEM legislation

[gs1968]

To gcq
I stand corrected.AILA included it in their daily news clips section but just provided a link to the Article in CQ. More significant news stories are usually on their recent postings page.Still no other source for this piece of information

[gs1968]

To gcq,qesehmk and others

I am very puzzled by the lack of excitement over the news that some negotiations are going on about H.R 3012 and Sen.Grassley's hold on the Bill. I have been following this blog and trackitt and there is no chatter whatsoever.I don't visit ** anymore and so I am not sure what they have said about this.Is this because our hopes have been raised multiple times only to be led down the road of disappointment? BTW, I am yet to find another source for the information about the potential release of the hold or the identity of the 2 other senators who object to this bill.
Incidentally, Sen.Grassley does not seem to be slowing down on his complaints about the H-1B/OPT program

http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9227651/Senator_seeks_student_visa_program_investigation?t axonomyId=70&pageNumber=1

[gcq]

To gcq,qesehmk and others

I am very puzzled by the lack of excitement over the news that some negotiations are going on about H.R 3012 and Sen.Grassley's hold on the Bill. I have been following this blog and trackitt and there is no chatter whatsoever.I don't visit ** anymore and so I am not sure what they have said about this.Is this because our hopes have been raised multiple times only to be led down the road of disappointment? BTW, I am yet to find another source for the information about the potential release of the hold or the identity of the 2 other senators who object to this bill.
Incidentally, Sen.Grassley does not seem to be slowing down on his complaints about the H-1B/OPT program

http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9227651/Senator_seeks_student_visa_program_investigation?t axonomyId=70&pageNumber=1
Grassley is a representative of anti-immigrant groups like NUSA. For grassleys' concern for fraud, look at his own fraud in this article which originally appeared in readers digest.
http://forums.soompi.com/discussion/342728/phony-farmers-exposed?_vanilla=true/

Other members of Congress have profited from subsidies directly. Arkansas Democratic senator Blanche Lincoln’s family received more than $700,000 over a ten-year period, and Republican Iowa senator Chuck Grassley, a millionaire deficit hawk, reaped $238,000 in federal dollars from 1995 to 2006.


Rightly said, our hopes have been raised multiple times so we are in wait and watch mode. Only ** donors will know what is going on behind the scenes. As for commoners like us we have nothing to do as action item. We just need to wait with hopeful prayers.