Patriot Act & Immigration Laws
The Patriot Act's primary motto was "Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism." The Act was passed in 2001 in response to the September 11 terrorist attacks, and increases the U.S. government's authority to investigate terrorist activity, in both citizens and non-citizens. In terms of immigration laws and regulations, the Patriot Act basically increased the power of the U.S. government to monitor and control any suspected terrorist activity. Section IV of the Patriot Act, entitled "Border Security," contains most of the amendments to immigration policies.
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Increased Authority
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The USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) received increased authority on immigration issues after the Patriot Act was passed. The USCIS now has the power to track immigrants with potential for terrorist activity, and is allowed access to new FBI systems.
Foreign Students
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Students who immigrate to the United States to study are more carefully monitored now that the Patriot Act has been passed. For example, the Attorney General is required to keep a record of all foreign students on American soil, and any students who want to attend flight school, vocational school, or language training schools must be approved by the Attorney General.
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Border Patrol
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The Patriot Act enforced stricter, more flexible surveillance of the northern border between the U.S. and Canada. With the approval of the Attorney General, it is now possible to triple the number of personnel facilities when needed. Additionally, the Patriot Act increased USCIS access to border patrol documentation, technology and other equipment.
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References
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