New Immigration Bill Aims for Accountability and Stability
Representatives Maria Elvira Salazar (R-Fla.) and Veronica Escobar (D-Texas) have come together to introduce the Dignity Act of 2025, a new proposal aimed at reforming the U.S. immigration system. This bill seeks to offer a structured pathway for certain undocumented immigrants to obtain legal status while prioritizing border security.
Under the Dignity Act, immigrants who have lived in the U.S. since before 2021 can apply for legal status for up to seven years, allowing them to work legally. To qualify, applicants would need to pay restitution and regularly check in with the Department of Homeland Security. However, it is key to note that this legal status would not include access to federal benefits or a route to citizenship.
Salazar expressed that the bill addresses the immigration crisis head-on by enforcing accountability without offering amnesty or unwarranted benefits. She stated, “No amnesty. No handouts. No citizenship. Just accountability and a path to stability for our economy and our future.”
The Dignity Act aims to be entirely funded by immigration fees and restitution payments, avoiding reliance on taxpayer money. It also plans to end the catch-and-release policy and requires employers to use E-Verify, enhancing the security of the Southern Border.
The bill is positioned as a response to the Trump administration’s past immigration policies, which led to significant disruptions in agricultural and service industries and sparked public outrage. Escobar noted the importance of creating a solution that acknowledges the contributions of long-standing immigrants while also securing the borders.
With bipartisan support already from 20 additional House members, both Salazar and Escobar are hopeful about the bill’s potential to bring real change to the immigration system.
Rep. Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.) highlighted the need for a fair immigration process, declaring that it is time to fix the broken system and create a pathway for those already contributing to society. The broader goal is to restore stability and honor America’s legacy as a nation of immigrants while ensuring that the nation’s laws are respected.
As discussions continue, the emphasis remains on finding sensible solutions that balance humanity with security, ensuring that both immigrants and American citizens benefit from a fair and orderly immigration process.
