Interior: H.R. 2124 (2013)

H.R. 2124, the Keeping the Promise of IRCA Act, does everything possible to keep the promises of internal enforcement made in the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 (IRCA). First and foremost, it establishes mandatory E-Verify for all future hires, effectively eliminating the jobs magnet. Penalties are increased for fraud and smuggling, and so-called “sanctuary cities” lose all State Criminal Alien Assistance Program (SCAAP) funding. A great deal of attention is given to improving ICE and its ability to effectively enforce the law, including increases in manpower and detention beds, the creation of an ICE Advisory Council, as well as the mandatory issuance of “Notice to Appear” (NTA) documents to aliens with criminal convictions. Finally, the bill requires the completion of a fully functioning entry-exit system at all ports of entry within 2 years, a reinstatement of the operational control metric, and other improvements to ensure the safety of personnel along the border.