Rep. Maria Salazar proposes new ‘Dignity Act' as solution to U.S. immigration crisis

Florida Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar introduced the Dignity Act, a comprehensive immigration reform bill that consists of three core principles: stopping illegal immigration, providing a dignified solution for immigrants living in America and strengthening the American workforce and economy.

The 483-page bill – first proposed by the Cuban-American Republican congresswoman in March 2021 -- would set up numerous changes to the immigration system and establish a new legal residency program for millions of undocumented immigrants.

“Our broken immigration system is fracturing America — economically, morally, socially, and politically. It's threatening the American Dream and our very way of life,” Salazar said on Tuesday.

“Today, I am introducing the Dignity Act to secure our border, provide a dignified solution to immigrants in the United States, and support American workers. While we are a nation of laws, we are also a nation of second chances. I'm grateful to my colleagues for joining me to keep the American Dream alive,” she added.

According to Salazar, the new legislation would serve to halt illegal immigration while also providing dignity to undocumented migrants who already reside in the United States.

“You can come out of the shadows and live a dignified life,” Salazar told reporters on a Tuesday morning call.

Through the “Dignity Program,” undocumented immigrants who have been in the U.S. for 5 years would be allowed to remain in the country and work legally.

Provided they pass a criminal background check, pay back taxes, begin paying income taxes and successfully pay $10,000 over 10 years as a penalty for entering illegally, participants would have the option of either continuing to work as legal residents under a renewable visa or enter a five-year “Redemption Program,” which would ultimately provide a path to citizenship for individuals willing to contribute to the American Worker Fund and study English and U.S. civics.

Through the various financial requirements outlined in the program, Salazar stressed that Washington would be better equipped to increase funding for border security.

“The undocumented labor force is going to be paying for border security,” she noted.

Although the bill could face scrutiny in the Democratic-controlled House, a Republican takeover in November could help move the bill forward. 

But while Salazar believes the bill could garner bi-partisan support, Salazar admitted that only "the Lord almighty" knows if her legislation could pass in the current Congress.