Comment Submitted by Irina Hamrick

I have been a U.S. citizen since 1998, and I strongly disagree with our administration's proposal to introduce new immigration regulations that could make the lives of thousands of our immigrants unsafe and negatively impact the U.S. economy. Refugees almost always leave their countries due to danger: wars, political persecution, and the tyranny of dictatorial regimes… Because of this, they almost never have documents with them to prove their education or work experience. Due to the ongoing extreme situation in their home countries, they are unable to obtain documents confirming their professional background. The new regulations will force thousands of people to return to their unsafe home countries. The people may end up for being under bombs or in prisons. Most refugees move here to provide a safe life for their children. If parents are returned to unsafe places, their children will be forced to follow them. This is an absolutely inhumane policy. Now let’s talk about common sense. People have been working—often working multiple jobs—paying taxes, buying houses, and starting businesses. This is all a huge plus for the U.S. economy. Why we are ruining this? Refugees are trying to forget the nightmare they went through in their countries. All they want is to become productive members of our society and live in peace. but the new regulations will make their lives even more difficult, if not lead to a catastrophe. I truly hope these regulations are not adopted. Our country is a nation of immigrants who built it over centuries and brought it to the level we are proud of today.