04/17/2026 In April 2026, immigration attorneys met with members of Congress in Washington, D.C. More than 300 attorneys from 34 states participated. This is an annual AILA format where attorneys meet with congressional and senatorial offices to discuss immigration policy. These meetings focus on specific legislative initiatives and priorities. Attorneys represent the professional community, share practical experience, and explain how current laws are applied in real cases. The discussions center on enforcement, access to procedures, detention conditions, and the development of legal immigration pathways. These topics relate to legislative initiatives currently under consideration in Congress. Among those being discussed: • American Dream and Promise Act • American Families United Act • Dignity for Detained Immigrants Act • Real Courts, Rule of Law Act • Healthcare Workforce Resilience Act • Haitian TPS Bill Most of these bills are still in early stages. The Haitian TPS Bill has already passed the House of Representatives and has been sent to the Senate. The key goal of these meetings is to gain lawmakers’ support, including encouraging them to join initiatives as co-sponsors. The number of co-sponsors is one of the indicators of whether a bill has political support and a chance of moving forward. These meetings do not produce immediate results, but they play a critical role in building the support needed to advance legislation that can change existing practices. The founder and managing attorney of Avagyan Law, Tehmina Avagyan, entered immigration law after an internship at the United Nations focused on refugee protection and human rights. This experience significantly shaped the firm’s direction. Avagyan Law participated in these meetings together with AILA colleagues. We will continue to follow the progress of these legislative initiatives.