The U.S. Asylum process allows individuals to seek legal protection at the U.S. border, both at ports of entry and between ports of entry, or in the interior. However, the asylum system is currently heavily backlogged. It takes an average of four years for a case to be adjudicated. During this time, asylum seekers are protected from deportation but otherwise lack status or access to most federal benefits.

Federal law currently requires an asylum seeker to wait six months after filing an application for asylum to be eligible for work authorization. Additionally, due to backlogs and delays at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), some may wait several months beyond that for adjudication of their work permit. Such delays lead this vulnerable population to pursue employment without authorization, which can in turn create situations of exploitation and abuse. 

The Asylum Seeker Work Authorization Act (H.R. 1325) is common-sense, bi-partisan legislation that would reduce asylees' wait time for work authorization from 180+ days to 30 days, giving them quicker access to legal work while their asylum cases are being adjudicated. This change would reduce their vulnerability to being trafficked or exploited, allowing them access to legal work sooner to provide for themselves and their families while pursuing their lawful application process. It would reduce their reliance on emergency services, and bolster both the U.S. workforce and economy. 

The School Sisters of Notre Dame have a deep commitment to standing up for human dignity and the protection of the vulnerable.  Please take time today to contact your Representative and urge them to co-sponsor this important legislation.