Republican Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar has reinforced her stance on U.S. immigration policy, championing her proposed legislation known as the Dignity Act. This bill aims to strengthen border control and maintain deportations, including those who entered the country under the Biden Administration, which encompasses thousands of Cubans.
On the social media platform X, the Florida legislator directly addressed conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Kirk had criticized the proposed bill, arguing that it would "shield illegal immigrants from deportation if they have resided in the United States since before 2021." He labeled the proposal as a "soft amnesty" that would effectively halt the mass deportations recently favored by American voters.
María Elvira promptly responded to Kirk's critique, stating, "Charlie, there are no tricks. No magic words. (...) Deportations of criminals and anyone who arrived under Biden will continue," she asserted in her message on X.
Furthermore, she clarified that there are ways to verify how long someone has been in the United States, such as passport entries, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) records, employment documentation, or tax payment receipts. "The burden of proof lies with the individual. If they cannot prove it, they do not qualify," María Elvira emphasized, highlighting that her proposal does not offer automatic citizenship or benefits.
The congresswoman maintains that her bill's objective is to permanently curb illegal immigration, enforce nationwide mandatory electronic verification, and ensure "order, dignity, and economic stability." "The Dignity Act is not amnesty. It is not a path to citizenship. There are no handouts. It is a path forward for our economy and our future," Salazar stressed in her message.
She has continually argued that her immigration reform plan secures the border and provides a legal avenue for long-standing immigrants who work, pay taxes, and fulfill responsibilities, without granting automatic privileges or benefits.
Her statements have stirred concern among migrant communities, particularly among the thousands of Cubans who entered the U.S. with documents such as I-220A, I-220B, CBP One, or Venezuelans with Temporary Protected Status (TPS), who fear facing deportation under this new legislation.
Understanding the Implications of the Dignity Act
What is the primary goal of María Elvira Salazar's Dignity Act?
The Dignity Act aims to permanently reduce illegal immigration, implement mandatory electronic verification nationwide, and ensure economic stability without providing automatic citizenship or benefits.
Who might be affected by the Dignity Act?
The Act could impact thousands of immigrants who entered the U.S. during the Biden Administration, including many Cubans and Venezuelans with Temporary Protected Status, who may face deportation under the new legislation.
How does the Dignity Act propose to verify the length of stay of immigrants in the U.S.?
The Act suggests using passport entries, Department of Homeland Security records, employment documentation, or tax payment receipts to verify how long an individual has been in the United States.