Reps. Maria Elvira Salazar (R-Fla.) and Veronica Escobar (D-Texas) have introduced the Dignity Act of 2025, a bipartisan immigration reform proposal aimed at addressing the ongoing crisis of undocumented labor in the U.S. The bill, which has garnered support from 20 additional House members, would grant work authorization to certain undocumented immigrants who have been in the U.S. since before 2021, offering them up to seven years of legal status. In exchange, the immigrants would be required to make restitution payments, report regularly to the Department of Homeland Security, and maintain good conduct, with the option to renew their status based on compliance.
Salazar described the bill as a ‘revolutionary’ solution to the immigration crisis, emphasizing its focus on securing borders, stopping illegal immigration, and providing an ‘earned opportunity’ for long-term residents. She also highlighted the bill’s rejection of ‘amnesty’ and ‘handouts,’ framing it as a means to restore dignity to those who have navigated a broken system. Escobar, on the other hand, focused on the economic contribution of immigrants, citing their role in the labor force and broader economy. She argued that the bill represents a balance between security and humanity, reflecting a growing call for comprehensive immigration reform.
While the bill does not offer a path to citizenship, it does provide a route to permanent residency. However, it explicitly excludes federal benefits, such as access to public services, which has sparked debates over the fairness of the proposal. Supporters argue that the bill’s emphasis on self-sufficiency and accountability aligns with the country’s economic interests, while critics contend that it does not adequately address the humanitarian concerns of an estimated 10 million undocumented immigrants in the U.S.
The legislation has faced opposition from several groups, including the American Immigration Council, which has expressed concerns over its lack of a broader pathway to citizenship and its reliance on restitution payments, which could place an undue burden on low-income workers. Meanwhile, the administration of former President Donald Trump has signaled its openness to a temporary solution for migrant workers, particularly in the agricultural sector. Trump has suggested that a ‘temporary pass’ could allow certain immigrants to continue working while paying taxes, giving farmers more control over hiring practices.
In addition to immigration reform, the bill has drawn attention to the broader economic and social implications of the Trump administration’s immigration policies. The increased enforcement, which has included raids on farms and food service businesses in Southern California, has disrupted labor markets, leading to protests in cities like Los Angeles. The recent raid on two cannabis facilities in the region resulted in a significant number of arrests and violent clashes between federal agents and protesters. One individual died during the incident, raising concerns about the human cost of aggressive immigration enforcement.
The bill also seeks to address broader workforce development challenges by expanding training and apprenticeship programs, which the supporters argue could help alleviate labor shortages in key industries. Despite these efforts, the legislation remains politically divisive, with strong support from both parties and concerns over its potential impact on national security and the economy. As Congress continues to debate the future of immigration policy, the Dignity Act of 2025 represents a critical step in what could be a long and complex legislative process.