Business backlash softened US green card policy
The US government’s stance on the new green card program was softened as a result of intense lobbying by American business leaders; immigration authorities assured industry leaders that the majority of work visas would remain unaffected, according to the reports. The response from business leaders, particularly those in the technology and artificial intelligence sectors, came swiftly after the US Citizenship and Immigration Services implemented a policy mandating that individuals working in the US must return to their home countries to apply for permanent residency or a green card.
In the days that followed, a series of private conversations unfolded via phone and email among leading businesses, industry groups, and CEOs with the White House, as well as the departments of Homeland Security, Labour, and State, as reported, citing sources familiar with the discussions. The US Chamber of Commerce was among industry groups that urged administration officials for additional guidance and cautioned about the potential harms to their workforce last week, it stated, noting that the tech industry also expressed concerns to the White House.
Then, late last week, the administration shifted its messaging dramatically. USCIS officials provided private assurances to business leaders during a meeting, indicating that the majority of work visas would remain unaffected, as reported. The USCIS also clarified to reporters that most immigrants seeking permanent residency would not have to leave the country. A formal guidance on this issue is still awaited. “Business reached out in a straightforward way to the administration to share their concerns about the green card policy,” said Jennie Murray. “We are glad to know that the administration is listening to those concerns and willing to work with the American business community,” Murray said.
According to the source, business leaders have been voicing their concerns regarding restrictive immigration policy in discussions with Trump confidants, such as Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and members of the Kushner family. Business leaders have been in direct communication with the White House, particularly the Domestic Policy Council, using private channels to express their opposition to immigration policies that limit access to workers, the report stated.
