Asylum Seeker Work Authorization Act (S.255/H.R. 1325)

The Asylum Seeker Work Authorization Act of 2023 (S.255) was introduced in the Senate by Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), with original cosponsorship of Senator Krysten Sinema (I-AZ) and Senator Angus King (I-ME), on February 2, 2023. 

The Asylum Seeker Work Authorization Act of 2023 (H.R.1325), was introduced in the House by Representative Chellie Pingree (D-ME), on March 1, 2023.

The bills propose amendments to existing immigration laws to facilitate timely access to work authorization. The key provisions of the bills include:

• Reduced Waiting Period for Work Authorization: Both bills reduce the waiting period for an applicant to be eligible for work authorization from 180 days to 30 days after filing the application for asylum.

Renewal Requirement: The House bill eliminates the 2-year renewal schedule for employment authorization. Once an applicant is granted work authorization, the permit remains valid until asylum is granted.