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1/6 important thread: As the single most diverse city in the country per capita we’re standing w/our residents. Yesterday we filed an amicus brief to join NYC in supporting an injunction of the new federal rules that would dramatically increase immigration fees. Here’s why:
2/6 New citizens see about a 10% increase in earnings within two years of naturalizing, and they’re more likely to fair better during economic downturn. In cities like Boston and Seattle, naturalized citizens are up to 33% more likely to own homes.
3/6 When we looked at our data, more than half of Jersey City’s recent applicants wouldn’t be able to become citizens if the fee hikes go into effect. The current fee is $725, with a reduced or waived fee option for families with very low income. The new fees would be about $1200
4/4 for each application, and the low income accommodations would be eliminated.
5/6 For a city like Jersey City, where 41% of our residents are foreign-born and our naturalization rates are typically much higher than the national average, the economic gains of newly naturalized citizens have a big and positive impact on our entire city.
6/6 So, this isn’t just about JC being “America’s Golden Door” or our top 3 national ranking for welcoming immigrants. It’s about stability/prosperity for all of us, especially now. If citizenship becomes less affordable, JC loses. If it’s more attainable, we’re better off.
