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Senator Menendez, Other Democrats Introduce Military Families Act

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military families actEarlier today, Senators Menendez (D-NJ), Reid (D-NV), Durbin (D-IL), Schumer (D-NY), Akaka (D-HI), Leahy (D-VT), Bennet (D-CO), and Gillibrand (D-NY) introduced the Military Families Act. This legislation aims to provide stability and peace of mind for men and women in the military who have close family members who are undocumented. The bill would allow parents, spouses, and children of active duty military servicemen and women to become legal permanent residents.

According to Lynn Tramonte, Deputy Director of America’s Voice Education Fund:

The lack of progress on federal immigration reform has created a cruel irony for many in our nation’s military.  While they bravely defend the country they love, the government is trying to deport their family members.  Still others have loved ones living in the shadows, worrying every day that the letter could come that begins their deportation proceedings.  No one should have to face these stresses while putting their lives on the line to protect our nation.  The Military Families Act is common sense legislation that should become law.  We applaud Senator Menendez and others for introducing this important legislation, and call on Members of Congress in both parties to come together and swiftly pass it.

This is a much needed bill that fills a gap at the intersection of military and immigration policy. Our military men and women have put their lives on the line to protect us and serve this country. Many of them are residents and have access to an accelerated path to citizenship because of the commitment and sacrifice they are making. However, their families, who are also sacrificing a great deal, remain in this limbo, with a family member fighting for the country that wants to deport them.