Overview of the Immigration Reform Law Institute (IRLI)
Founding and Affiliation
IRLI was founded in 1986 as the legal arm of the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR). It is the only public interest non-profit law firm in the United States devoted exclusively to protecting the rights and interests of Americans in immigration-related matters.
Mission
IRLI is dedicated to defending responsible immigration policies in court, before administrative agencies, and before legislative bodies on behalf of the American people. The organization aims to safeguard against abuses of power and educate the public about the threats of unchecked mass migration. This helps protect jobs, resources, and security for American citizens.
Historical Context
IRLI was founded by John Tanton, who played a significant role in the anti-immigrant movement. Since its inception, IRLI has been a key player in drafting model anti-immigrant legislation and litigating against cities and states that welcome immigrants. The organization often challenges local and state laws that provide sanctuary and other protections for immigrants.
Learn more about FAIR
Activities
Legislative Drafting
IRLI drafts model anti-immigrant legislation for lawmakers and defends these measures in court. Some notable examples include:
- Arizona’s SB 1070: This law, co-authored by former IRLI counsel Kris Kobach and former state Senator Russell Pearce, is a tough immigration bill that has faced many legal battles.
Learn more about Arizona’s SB 1070
Litigation
IRLI has been involved in several high-profile legal battles against immigration policies they oppose. Examples include:
- Crane v. Napolitano: Aimed at challenging policies related to DACA recipients.
- U.S. v. Texas: A legal case against President Obama’s immigration actions concerning DAPA (Deferred Action for Parents of Americans).
IRLI also litigates against cities and states that pass laws welcoming immigrants.
Representation and Advice
IRLI represents Americans who feel harmed by illegal immigration. The organization advises U.S. workers and property owners on:
- Protecting jobs and working conditions.
- Businesses staying safe from employers hiring unauthorized alien workers.
Education and Resources
IRLI provides immigration-related legal advice, training, and resources. They help:
- Public officials.
- The legal community.
- The general public.
They contribute to the development of immigration laws through:
- Law review articles.
- Legal issue briefs.
- Books and speaking engagements.
Investigations
IRLI uses public records laws to hold politicians accountable and educate the public about uncontrolled immigration. Their activities include:
- Filing Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests.
- Leading national immigration-related investigations.
Legal Strategies and Influence
High-Profile Cases
The Immigration Reform Law Institute (IRLI) has played a major role in creating and defending laws that limit immigration. Here are some notable high-profile cases:
- Muslim Ban: IRLI supported the Trump Administration’s policy to ban travel from several Muslim-majority countries. They filed briefs in favor of this policy, arguing it was important for national security.
- Asylum Law Changes: IRLI worked to change asylum laws to make it harder for people to claim asylum in the U.S. This included supporting rules that restrict the ways and reasons someone can apply for asylum.
- National Emergency Declaration: IRLI advocated for declaring a national emergency to secure funding for a wall along the Southern border. They supported this measure to help control illegal immigration.
Influence on Trump Administration Policies
IRLI had a lot of influence on the immigration policies of the Trump Administration. They placed several former staff members in key government roles, such as:
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
- Department of Justice
- Department of Homeland Security
These placements helped shape and implement strict immigration policies during Trump’s presidency.
Network and Affiliations
IRLI created a group called Attorneys United for a Secure America (AUSA). This is a non-partisan network of lawyers dedicated to working on cases that protect the national interest in immigration law. Their goal is to ensure that American laws and policies are strong and fair.