West STL News

Congresswoman Ann Wagner and Congressman Brandon Gill have introduced the Fee Increases for Reckless Mismanagement Act, known as the FIRM Act. This legislation aims to increase visa fees for nationals from certain countries seeking nonimmigrant visas to the United States.

According to Congresswoman Wagner, "President Trump and Congressional Republicans earned an historic mandate to secure our border, instill law and order, and put America first." She emphasized that the bill seeks financial consequences for countries that do not cooperate with U.S. immigration policies. "This bill serves as a carrot and a stick," she stated.

Congressman Gill highlighted the importance of protecting American citizens by ensuring proper vetting of visa applicants. He noted that the FIRM Act would support President Trump's efforts in managing immigration flows. "I am proud to co-lead the FIRM Act with Congresswoman Wagner," he said.

Michael Hough from NumbersUSA expressed support for the bill, stating it ensures accountability for foreign countries undermining U.S. immigration laws. Joe Chatham from the Federation for American Immigration Reform also endorsed the act, emphasizing its role in holding other nations accountable.

The criteria for increased fees include being identified as recalcitrant countries by Homeland Security, designated state sponsors of terrorism by the State Department, or classified as tier 3 countries in human trafficking reports. Depending on these criteria, visa fees could increase by 50% to 150%.

Countries affected include Iran and Cuba meeting all three criteria; Russia, Venezuela, Burma, Eritrea, Syria, and North Korea meeting two; and several others including China and Afghanistan meeting one criterion. The proposed fee increases could generate an additional $65.6 million based on fiscal year 2023 data.