The points-based “merit”Congress is looking at a system to replace our current immigration system which is based on family unity. It would replace the current relationship-based system (where family members and employers sponsor people to come here), with one that is based on certain characteristics such as age, education, and English proficiency. If you have enough points, you can apply to get a green card.
This is simply not the solution to the problems in our immigration system. It also does not reflect the values on which our nation was founded. Although such a system is appealing from the surface, it’s a massive exercise in social experimentation.
A merit system has many problems.
* First, it represents a wholesale revamping of the philosophical foundations of our immigration system. A merit system is a system that removes the immigrant system from its roots in family and employment relationships.
* Second, a merit system lumps all immigrant workers into a single pool, whatever the skill level. Even if the numbers are not sufficient, it would severely limit family immigration and favor highly-skilled workers over those of lower skill, leaving construction and agriculture without the necessary manpower.
* Third, a merit system would allow federal government bureaucracy to reign supreme. It would allow the government to replace the employer role in selecting the best workers and filling the labor shortages. Employers would be unable to find the skills and knowledge they require to fill certain positions in highly skilled industries. This system, in which we would depend on the government for choice, would compromise labor-market flexibility and threaten the United States’ long-term economic stability and competitiveness.
In summary, it is not a smart idea to establish a merit system. “fix”With few long-term benefits, and many adverse consequences. Without having done extensive research on how the system might work and whether it would solve immigration problems, Congress is taking a dangerous step. A radical overhaul of immigration such as the merit program deserves more than the bare review and broad approval Congress seems to have given it. First, we must determine if it is fair, efficient, and feasible for our country.
Rizwan hassan is the American Immigration Lawyers Association’s Advocacy associate. He works with fellow advocates and lawmakers to analyze legislation in support of comprehensive immigration Reform.
