Comment Submitted by Stacy McCoy

I respectfully urge the Department not to make it more difficult for individuals who are lawfully present in the United States and already authorized to work to obtain or maintain employment authorization. Over the past several years, I have had the privilege of supporting a family that came to the United States after fleeing the war in Ukraine. Watching them rebuild their lives has shown me how important employment authorization is—not only for the families involved, but also for the communities and employers that depend on their skills. Employment authorization allows legally authorized individuals to become self-sufficient, pay taxes, support their families, and contribute to their local communities. I have seen firsthand how people who are given the opportunity to work become teachers, commercial drivers, healthcare workers, and other productive members of society. Making employment authorization more difficult to obtain or maintain for individuals who are already lawfully present creates unnecessary uncertainty for employers and families. It can remove qualified workers from jobs where they are needed without improving public safety or strengthening the workforce. I encourage the Department to preserve flexibility in granting employment authorization to eligible individuals who are lawfully present. Policies should recognize those who have demonstrated good moral character, complied with U.S. laws, and made meaningful contributions to their communities. The ability to work legally benefits not only the individual, but also employers, local economies, and the nation as a whole. I respectfully ask that these practical and humanitarian considerations be taken into account as this rule is finalized. Thank you for considering my comment.