E-2 Visa Reform Day of Action - Nov 5th

[British Redneck]

Zoe Adams from E2VisaReform.org has asked us to mark November 5th as a "Day of Action" by flooding politicians in Washington with emails, phone calls and letters to elicit support for the movement.

Below is the email or letter I shall be asking all my friends to send. It borrows heavily from Zoe's plea but is written more from a US citizen's viewpoint which might have more weight than a bunch of whinging Brits and assorted others.




E-2 Visa Reform - Nonimmigrant Investor Adjustment Act of 2009 H.R. 1162

Dear ......

I am writing to you to request that you support Congressman Adam Putnam in
his efforts to amend the regulations and restrictions of the E-2
Nonimmigrant Investor Visa as currently written and interpreted.

The E-2 Visas permits foreign persons to establish businesses in the United
States with capital they bring from overseas. It is believed that there may
be as many as 120,000 such businesses currently trading. It is estimated
that E2 Businesses brought in foreign investment of around $40 billion,
employ over 650,000 US citizens and have an annual turnover of
$50 billion which contributes significantly to the economy of the United States.

However, the E-2 Visa holders have no security of tenure. The Visa cannot
be converted to Green Card (permanent residency) status and the dream of US citizenship is denied to them. They may not retire or seek alternative employment and their children are also in jeopardy of becoming persona non grata when they attain the age of 21 years. Renewal at five year intervals is by no means assured and the loss of the E-2 Visa means the loss of the investment, the loss of jobs and loss of taxable income to the United States' economy.

In these tough times America needs entrepreneurs. E-2 investors are ideal
immigrants. They are self-supporting and have invested substantial monies
for the privilege of living here. Please support Congressman Putnam in his
promotion of E-2 Nonimmigrant Investor Adjustment Act of 2009 H.R.1162.

Sincerely,

[grumps]

Zoe Adams from E2VisaReform.org has asked us to mark November 5th as a "Day of Action" by flooding politicians in Washington with emails, phone calls and letters to elicit support for the movement.

Below is the email or letter I shall be asking all my friends to send. It borrows heavily from Zoe's plea but is written more from a US citizen's viewpoint which might have more weight than a bunch of whinging Brits and assorted others.




E-2 Visa Reform - Nonimmigrant Investor Adjustment Act of 2009 H.R. 1162

Dear ......

I am writing to you to request that you support Congressman Adam Putnam in
his efforts to amend the regulations and restrictions of the E-2
Nonimmigrant Investor Visa as currently written and interpreted.

The E-2 Visas permits foreign persons to establish businesses in the United
States with capital they bring from overseas. It is believed that there may
be as many as 120,000 such businesses currently trading. It is estimated
that E2 Businesses brought in foreign investment of around $40 billion,
employ over 650,000 US citizens and have an annual turnover of
$50 billion which contributes significantly to the economy of the United States.

However, the E-2 Visa holders have no security of tenure. The Visa cannot
be converted to Green Card (permanent residency) status and the dream of US citizenship is denied to them. They may not retire or seek alternative employment and their children are also in jeopardy of becoming persona non grata when they attain the age of 21 years. Renewal at five year intervals is by no means assured and the loss of the E-2 Visa means the loss of the investment, the loss of jobs and loss of taxable income to the United States' economy.

In these tough times America needs entrepreneurs. E-2 investors are ideal
immigrants. They are self-supporting and have invested substantial monies
for the privilege of living here. Please support Congressman Putnam in his
promotion of E-2 Nonimmigrant Investor Adjustment Act of 2009 H.R.1162.

Sincerely,

i think it needs the e-mail address where to send it

[byjove]

have posted on face book and emailed this letter.

[chris]

have posted on face book and emailed this letter.

By Jove... you've jumped the gun!!
The day of action is November 5th, when we are all asked to write email, tag or whatever. The whole point is to do it on one day to maximize impact.
Now go into the corner and write 'I must read posts at the very top' and resend your email on Thursday like everyone else. Anymore instances like this and we'll set the nasty USCIS man and his dog on you!!:):):):):):):):):)

[British Redneck]

i think it needs the e-mail address where to send it

O.K. - and to quote from the latest E2VisaReform.com newsletter:

"To find your own Member of Congress, put your full Zip Code in the top left corner of this website - http://www.house.gov/ and then you can go to the right website. On a lot of these websites you will be able to e-mail directly to the office, but you will need to put in your own details."

There's a similar process to find your Senator at http://www.senate.gov/ plus you can even go directly to the White House through http://www.whitehouse.gov/contact/

[byjove]

By Jove... you've jumped the gun!!
The day of action is November 5th, when we are all asked to write email, tag or whatever. The whole point is to do it on one day to maximize impact.
Now go into the corner and write 'I must read posts at the very top' and resend your email on Thursday like everyone else. Anymore instances like this and we'll set the nasty USCIS man and his dog on you!!:):):):):):):):):)

Actually I had started my post on FB and email with remember remember the 5th of November and asked that people do it on that day only!!!!!

I was being a good girl guide and being prepared (or rather getting every one else)

[Steve in clermont]

ok this is the letter i intend to send out on thursday, please let me know what you think

Dear Congressman / Senator

I would like to draw your attention to the plight of a group of investors who work and pay taxes in the US under a visa called the E2 Treaty trader investor visa.

My family and i invested our entire lives in coming to America and living the American way of life. Our visa has a tempory resident status with no pathway to a premanent residence. Apart from having to leave the country every 2 years, we have to endure regular renwals of the visa in our country of birth. The cost of taking my whole family to London every 2-5 years for a 5 minute interview is money wasted. The visa renewal process is precarious at best, and many visa holders will hold back on expansion because of the insecurity of our futures. This money would be far better put to use expanding the company and possibly employing more US citizens in our business.

My children are the products of the US education system. The children have been brought up as Americans, their freinds are here , their lives are here. Yet when they reach the age of 21 they are forced to leave thier homes and their friends or find their own way of obtaining a visa to stay. The economic cost of their education is lost if they are forced to leave.

This is where we would like your help.
Congressman Adam Putnam has introduced a bill originally penned by ex congresswoman Heather Wilson. The bill is known as H.R.1162. The bill if passed would address a number of issues affecting a significant number of visa holders. I would urge you to discuss this matter with your fellow senators and congressmen.
American needs entreprenures particulaly in the current economic climate. As E2 investors we are the perfect immigants, we are self supporting employers of US citizens. We have Invested our money ( most cases our entire life savings ) to be here. We are not here on get rich quick schemes , we are here because we belive in this country and its way of life.
The cost of supporting this bill is negligable compared to the benefits we as investors bring. We are already here, working , paying taxes and using the US education system. All we asked is that we be allowed to stay permanently.

On friday October 23rd a meeting was held in orlando by the EZ Visa reform organisation www.E2reform.org . A turnout of over 400 people representing 143 local businesses were present. Many more were unable to attend but nonetheless supported what we are trying to do.
From the 143 companies represented we took a poll to find out how much of an economic impact we really had on the local area. A combined total of 48.5 Million Dollars were invested in the area , with a combined annual turnover of 56 million dollars. To add to this we had a combined employee count of 776 employees.
These are significant numbers causing a positive impact on the local economy.
It is estimated that there are 120,000 E2 visa holders across American. If we use our local poll as a model we can approximate the following figures as a fair reflection of our economic impact on the US as a whole.
An investment of 40 Billion Dollars an annual turnover of around 50 billion dollars and an employee count of 650,000.

For more information of what we are trying to acheive please visit the website www.E2reform.org

Thank you for your time

[British Redneck]

Great letter, Steve. Go for it!

One of my friends went ahead of the day and has already sent out an email to his Representative. He got a form-letter reply but, since she has a form-letter prepared, it does mean that she's aware of our problems. From Ginny Brown-Waite:

Dear Fred:

Thank you for bringing your concerns to my attention. I appreciate the time you took to contact my office on this important issue and welcome the opportunity to respond.

As you know, Congressman Adam Putnam introduced H.R. 1162, the E-2 Nonimmigrant Investor Adjustment Act of 2009. The bill allows 3,000 immigrants each year who have been here for more than five years on an E-2 visas to change to permanent resident status. To do this, the applicant must invest at least $200,000 in an enterprise and employ at least two people when they start their business and employ three or more within 3 years. The measure has been referred to the Committee on Judiciary where it awaits further action.

A number of problems currently exist with E-2 Investor Visas. The children of immigrants holding these visas face uncertainty throughout their lives - once a child turns 21, they must return to their country of origin. More problematic is if these immigrants ever sell their business or retire, they must return to their country of origin because they are prohibited from applying for permanent legal status, regardless of how much they have contributed to the American economy.

I have taken a strong, unwavering stand against illegal immigration because immigration laws exist to provide the necessary steps for safe and legal entry into this country. I sympathize with those who desperately wish to live the American dream here, on American soil, and those who follow the rules and pay their dues should have the right to apply for permanent residency. Should this bill come before the House of Representatives, I will be sure to keep your comments in mind.

Throughout my tenure in public service, I have always kept an open door and an open dialogue with my constituents. As Congress addresses the many challenges facing our nation, I hope you will continue to share your thoughts and views with me. Accordingly, I encourage you to visit my Web site at http://brown-waite.house.gov to email me and find useful information about our 5th Congressional District.

It is my honor and privilege to serve the people of Florida's 5th Congressional District and my offices and staff are here to provide you with any assistance you may need.

Sincerely,

Ginny Brown-Waite
Member of Congress

[charliesmum]

Great letter Steve

I think we are going to get a great response on Thursday.

We are having a table at the Firework Night, so if you are around please come and say Hi.

Someone who came to the Meeting said we should all have badges/stickers on saying "My name is ..... and I am an E2er" - at least we would be able to spot each other!!!!

Zoe

[Ed Tha Brit]

This is a very good response,

We had an interview with one of her aids a couple of years ago, and was told, we knew what we were getting into so, this is a positive response and hopefully a change to the normal E-Mail I recieve from her office, I was only talking about her to another E-2 Visa holder last night over a glass of beer!

He was very interested to know how we went on in Orlando at the E-2 Reform Reception

We will not be at the bonfire on Thursday night due to work commitments but, I wish it well and I will be intersted to see if the media turn up for this one?

In Yorkshire we call it "Plot Night" so have fun and be safe everyone, Zoe you can light your sparklers off!!!!

Have a nice Day

Ed Tha Brit

[chris]

Steve,
Good letter, but you may want to do a spell check before you send it. There are a couple of mispells. Not nitpickling, just want to ensure everything we do and say is presented in the best possible light.

Zoe,
We don't need badges to identify ourselves as E2'rs, the stress lines and our hang dog looks say it all:D:D:D:D:D

[Steve in clermont]

Chris.... Will do spell check , i saw some bad bits when i read through

A lot of the contacts require you to fill in a contact form rather than give you an email address , this makes it very hard for us to estimate how many actually sent letters.
If anyone has actual email addresses please post them her so we can all send to same places.
I like the idea of sending to oprah , but lets not stop there , lets get emails into our local tv stations , fox35 , channel13 news etc etc .. i have preped a much shorter letter that my staff will be sending too, maybe thats something we could all do ... lets not settle a hundred emails , lets go for thousands.
send the email for all your email accounts , lets totally swamp them .

[Steve in clermont]

hi zoe

i can come man the table for a while thursday , im bringing the kids down , the thought of english bangers had em jumping..lol

[charliesmum]

See you there Steve

Zoe

[British Redneck]

http://tickers.tickerfactory.com/ezt/d/4;10708;3/st/20091105/e/E2+Visa+Day+of+Action/k/4f42/event.png

Remember, remember, the fifth of November!

I had the opportunity to address the Poinciana Area Council of the Kissimmee/Osceola Chamber of Commerce at our lunchtime meeting today. Everyone was appalled by the apparent injustice of the E-2 Visa and agreed to support The Day of Action so I spent an interesting afternoon sending out about 70 emails with all the details and my "sample" letter. More shoulders to the wheel...

[Ed Tha Brit]

Ok

Just finished sending out my E-Mails to all the Congressmen & women but, I have already recieved a reply from my local Congresswomen, Ginny-Waite-Brown and believe it or not it is word for word the same reply that Steve recieved a while back?

Have a happy plot night everybody.

Ed Tha Brit

[Flower Power]

Just sent my e mails to Obama, Nelson, Le Mieux, Oprah, and Rooney. Posey's e mail does not work unfortunately.

Has anybody suggested setting up a twitter group for E2 reform. I wonder how many members we could get!!

[Flower Power]

@FLOWERPOWERDAV/e2visareform

OK I have set up a twitter group on E2 reform.

Could everybody interested in E2 reform and on twitter please join it.

[chris]

Spent a frustrating half hour trying to send emails to our beloved Congressman, shuttling backwards and forwards between the House site for their web addresses and then the individuals web addresses, only to find that in some cases they don't allow emails from plebs outside their district.
I have now spent another b***l aching half hour laboriously writing down the Washington fax numbers of most of the Florida congressman and woman. Whilst a lower tech approach than email, it will get through and once in the groove I can rattle off faxes pretty quick.
They don't make it easy do they??????

[charliesmum]

Chris

I spent nearly 2 days putting together the paper, in the Folder that we gave out at the Reception, with all the websites, phone numbers and fax numbers of all the Florida Members of Congress. Could have saved you some work!!!!

I have e-mailed the Senators, the White House and Oprah - although I had to scale it down as she will only allow 2000 characters!!! I'm also about to fax all the offices of the Members of Congress in Florida.

I have had great responses from people who have already sent e-mails, so let's hope this goes crazy.

Looking forward to a good evening tonight at the Guy Fawkes night and relaxing a bit!!!

Zoe

[kelly graves]

Hi Guys I have just sent our letter off to the congresswomen and the local Sanate. fingers crossed that someone will listen to our plight

[British Redneck]

I just spent a joyous (???) hour or so copying and pasting to all the Florida pols. Thanks for emailing the list, Zoe, that helped enormously. Occasionally I was rejected because I live outside their constituency but mostly the message went through and now She-that-must-be-obeyed is plodding through the same process. The word is getting out!

Seeya this evening.

[alanbcook]

Hi,

Just sent off our e-mails to the 2 Florida Senators, our congressman and The Whitehouse.

Alan & Lyn

[Puddin]

Hi,

Just sent off e-mails to both Senators, Congreesman Alan Grayson and The White House. I hope they are going to be really busy!

Have a great day every one.

Puddin

[darrenandgail]

Hi All

Have just sent emails to Congressmen Bill Posey,and Bill Nelson and to Oprah and Mr Obama. Not got our E2 yet but i thought i would do my bit...............

Darren and Gail

[British Redneck]

This afternoon seven sets of emails to all the Florida pols went out from our office. I luv the people I work with!

[chris]

We sent two sets of mixtures of emails and faxes to the FL congressman/woman and the 2 senators. My son will be sending his personal plea from a teenager when he gets home from school.
I can hope that all the E2 businesses that employ lots of USC's have encouraged them to rattle cages too.
There can't be too much grist to the mill here
Go E2'rssssssssssssssssss:p:p:p:p

[UKEBRITS]

we need a facebook group too..can someone please make one ?
I emailed and faxed evryone I could on 5th nov......not one response..sad

[InnVic]

There is a facebook page - search E2 reform

[British Redneck]

This afternoon I received a reply from Congressman Mica. It seems to be well thought out although he exactly didn't offer to fall on his sword for us.

Dear British Redneck:



Thank you for contacting me regarding the E-2 Treaty Trader Investor Visa. It was good to hear from you and I am pleased for the opportunity to respond.



As you may know, H.R. 1162, the E-2 Nonimmigrant Investor Adjustment Act seeks to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to permit certain E-2 nonimmigrant investors to adjust status to lawful permanent resident status. This legislation also will permit aliens who have been present in the United States as an E-2 nonimmigrant investor for at least five years to become immediately eligible to adjust their status to that of an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residency.



Like you, I believe that the E-2 Trader Investor Visa is important because granting permanent residence status to foreign investors will result in their continuous investment into the American economy and will ultimately lead to the creation of more jobs for the American public. During this time period of economic unrest it is important that we as Congress do everything in our power to create more jobs for the American people and help stimulate the economy.



Thank you again for informing me of your views. Please do not hesitate to contact me regarding this or any other issue in the future.

[InnVic]

This afternoon I received a reply from Congressman Mica. It seems to be well thought out although he exactly didn't offer to fall on his sword for us.

Dear British Redneck:



Thank you for contacting me regarding the E-2 Treaty Trader Investor Visa. It was good to hear from you and I am pleased for the opportunity to respond.



As you may know, H.R. 1162, the E-2 Nonimmigrant Investor Adjustment Act seeks to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to permit certain E-2 nonimmigrant investors to adjust status to lawful permanent resident status. This legislation also will permit aliens who have been present in the United States as an E-2 nonimmigrant investor for at least five years to become immediately eligible to adjust their status to that of an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residency.



Like you, I believe that the E-2 Trader Investor Visa is important because granting permanent residence status to foreign investors will result in their continuous investment into the American economy and will ultimately lead to the creation of more jobs for the American public. During this time period of economic unrest it is important that we as Congress do everything in our power to create more jobs for the American people and help stimulate the economy.



Thank you again for informing me of your views. Please do not hesitate to contact me regarding this or any other issue in the future.

But what has he/she said they are going to do apart from being given the opportunity to write to you???? I hope it comes to something but personal experience has proven to me that:
a) the senator/congressman/governors don't write these replies - some monkey in the office does
b) the same reply goes out to almost every similar contact.
c) the note actually reads in politician speak "bugger off and don't bother me again"

When our visa situation was threatened a couple of years ago several dozen folks locally wrote in our support - those that gave me feedback ALL got the standard blah blah "we're aware of the situation, thank you for your support, we'll be working on this and tracking progress" letter - this was after the Senators office told us personally that they could/would do nothing. I actually phone and pulled the office up for BS'ing people who supported us, by pretending that their office were doing anything and that there was actually "any progress to track'. Beware of politicians - they offer platitudes and hope you go away - especially if you have no vote

[bobinalbuquerque]

I would treat the Mica response in a positive way.Someone,somewhere in his office has researched the E2 to such a stage that they now have E2 awareness. The element that obviously caught their eye was continued investment and jobs.
Having secured that response I would suggest a follow-up phone call and ask for a meeting so as to progress the issue thereby bringing a personal dynamic to the picture.Our real hope though is C.I.R. and that comprehensive is really COMPREHENSIVE.Janet Napolitano's speech last week had two encouraging elements in it and for the moment our quest in developing awareness with congress and senate offices remains key.

[chris]

Bob, I would agree that any response is a positive because it shows that the correspondence was read. In some cases it will be the standard response, but so what it's a response.
Mica's response is somewhat more a than a standard response.
As one of the 3 founding members of the E2 Reform group, whether you like it or not, many E2'rs out there look to you, Nina and Zoe for a lead on the reform action.
I have seen on this and other forums E2'rs who have done as they were asked and are now feeling frustrated by what they perceive as a vacuum they are now in. They have sent their emails or whatever, they have got little or nothing in response and they don't know what to do next.
If the Reform action has any chance of impact and success from the many, it needs to have an Action Plan that everyone can follow. Communication is key.
The 3 of you are closer to the action than anyone of us and I will do all I can but most want a lead or at the very least told or advised what to do next.

[charliesmum]

I think the thing to do next is to wait it our for a little while. Health reform and the Economy are still the big things going on in politics at the moment and everything is winding down for the 'Holidays'.

I went to meet with Congressman Tom Rooney's Aide in Stuart on Monday and this was basically the advice she gave me.

I know we all hoped that the Day of Action would have instant results, but what it has done is get E2 Visas into a few more people's awareness and that is what we wanted to happen.

The fact that we are getting some responses is good and Congressman Mica's office seem to be getting our situation, so a few phone calls to their office in Washington may help.

The best thing people can do is read their local papers and see what their Member of Congress is doing over the Holiday period. Turn up and introduce yourself - tell them you are on an E2 and ask them if they heard about the staggering figures that came out of our Reception and whether they got many e-mails. Most of them will happily talk for a few minutes to their constituents and that's what we are - even if we can't vote, our employees and clients can - so we are important to them. Sign up on their e-mail for information - that's how we found out about Adam Putnam's Town Hall Meeting and we went along.

Then after Christmas, when Washington is back up and running again, we can start another Campaign to get ourselves noticed.

Zoe

[Steve in clermont]

let me have the email addy for mica and ill send my letter , if i get exact same reply then we will know its just a "yeah yeah wotever" letter

[chris]

Zoe,
Sound advice.
I think many politicians are punch drunk with the ongoing health care debacle coupled with the 'are we in or are we out of recession' debate.
The Day of Action was really the beginning of what should be an orchestrated effort to push our situation and the Reform bill, but it needs to be orchestrated. That is why the hispanic groups have achieved so much, because they are organized and ultimately led. I truly believe that is what we have to have. Whether you like it, want it or sought Zoe, Nina and Bob, you are the three folks most look up to for inspiration and guidance now.

[norcal]

Things do not happen overnight - particularly in the political world. The action needs to be continuous and sustained by everyone. I turn up to every public meeting that my Congressman is at. I speak to aides at every event - they greet me by name now! For November 5 I sent emails to over 200 friends, clients, local politicians etc. and asked them to email their representatives on our behalf (I shamelessly plagiarised a letter from this site for them to use) and can honestly say I have been humbled by the huge response I got. Complete strangers have emailed me to say they have emailed their rep. I posted on Facebook and am still getting a response today.
I thank Zoe, Nina and Bob - they are an inspiration to us all. I do not know who they are but I owe you guys so much. I am sure it is taking up way to much of your time and focus. Good luck to us all and keep on fighting.

[chris]

Excellent post Norcal. You are a credit to us.

[British Redneck]

Here ya go, Steve.

Congressman.Mica@housemail.house.gov

[British Redneck]

And this just in to my wife from Congressman Bill Young (fl10iqima@mail.house.gov)

"Dear Mrs. British Redneck

Thank you for letting me know of your support for H.R. 1162, the E-2 Nonimmigrant Investor Adjustment Act of 2009.



You can be sure that I share your interest in this regard and appreciate knowing your thoughts. As you know, E-2 visa holders make a valuable contribution to society by injecting capital into the economy and creating employment opportunities for U.S. citizens. H.R. 1162 would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to make E-2 visa holders who have resided in the United States for at least five years immediately eligible to adjust to permanent resident status.



H.R. 1162 has been referred to the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship, Refugees, Border Security, and International Law where it awaits further consideration. Because of your interest in this matter, and in an effort to be of all possible assistance to you, I have taken the liberty of sharing your support for this legislation with my colleagues on the subcommittee. As they continue to review the E-2 Nonimmigrant Investor Adjustment Act, please know that they will keep your thoughts in mind.



Again, thank you for taking the time to contact me regarding this matter of mutual concern. It is my hope that you will continue to keep me apprised of your interest in legislative issues important to you.



With best wishes and personal regards, I am



Bill Young
Member of Congress"

Seems a little more "personal" or maybe he's got a better letter writer.

[bobinalbuquerque]

Will we win the multi million $ lottery overnight ? .....sadly not, but what we are winning is little amounts by way of each and everyone with their scratchcards (letters,faxes,& E mails).

There are so many encouraging little things coming together which give hope and which will help formulate a real strategy that we can all rally behind and move forward with.Our situation is quite unique and always garners a level of interest and respect from the great American public and it remains essential to continually build awareness.Just a few years back "real" E2 awareness in local congress & senate offices across the U.S.was probably 1%,today I would like to believe we have reached double figures. Small beer for sure but momentum in the right direction.I encourage everyone to seek angles to get their own E2 story into their congress or senate representative's office.

[charliesmum]

Zoe and Nina were invited to appear on a radio show this week.

They were on "The Justice Hour" with host Lisa Macci which is broadcast from Lake Worth near West Palm Beach in Florida.

To listen to the show follow this link and then choose the audio file that you would prefer.

http://www.lisamacci.com/thejusticehour/archives.html

Steve

[British Redneck]

Steve, you neglected to mention that the interesting stuff starts at around minute 11. Good interview ladies, well done.

[darrenandgail]

Hi All

I have just received this reply from Congressman Bill Posey ( he has even slipped my name into it twice) at least it is a reply..

Thank you for contacting me to express your support for improving the foreign investor visa program. It is good to hear from you.

As you know, an E-2 treaty investor visa allows foreign nationals to enter the United States to develop and direct the operations of an enterprise in which they have invested, or are in the process of investing a substantial amount of capital. E-class visas require that a treaty exist between the United States and the principal foreign national's country of citizenship.

As you mentioned, foreign investors are generally considered to help boost the United States economy by providing an influx of foreign capital into the United States and through job creation. Especially during these difficult economic times, the entrepreneurship and increased economic activity spurred by foreign investors are important.

The E-2 Nonimmigrant Investor Adjustment Act (H.R. 1162) would make certain foreign investors, specifically those holding E2-visas, who have resided in the United States for at least five years immediately eligible to adjust status to permanent resident status. This bill has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee, where it awaits further action. Although I am not a member of this committee, please be assured that I will keep your support in mind should this bill come before the full House for consideration and as the Congress debates immigration reform.

Thank you again, Darren, for contacting me. For more information on my work in Congress or to sign up to receive my E-newsletter, please visit my website, http://www.posey.house.gov/. If I may be of service to you in the future, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

Bill Posey
Member of Congress

[British Redneck]

And exactly the same letter received by a friend of ours:

Dear Mrs. XXXXX,

Thank you for contacting me to express your support for improving the foreign investor visa program. It is good to hear from you.

As you know, an E-2 treaty investor visa allows foreign nationals to enter the United States to develop and direct the operations of an enterprise in which they have invested, or are in the process of investing a substantial amount of capital. E-class visas require that a treaty exist between the United States and the principal foreign national's country of citizenship.

As you mentioned, foreign investors are generally considered to help boost the United States economy by providing an influx of foreign capital into the United States and through job creation. Especially during these difficult economic times, the entrepreneurship and increased economic activity spurred by foreign investors are important.

The E-2 Nonimmigrant Investor Adjustment Act (H.R. 1162) would make certain foreign investors, specifically those holding E2-visas, who have resided in the United States for at least five years immediately eligible to adjust status to permanent resident status. This bill has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee, where it awaits further action. Although I am not a member of this committee, please be assured that I will keep your support in mind should this bill come before the full House for consideration and as the Congress debates immigration reform.

Thank you again, XXXXX, for contacting me. For more information on my work in Congress or to sign up to receive my E-newsletter, please visit my website, http://www.posey.house.gov/. If I may be of service to you in the future, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

Bill Posey
Member of Congress

[byjove]

OMG! Its word for word!

[Susie]

Hi All

I have just received this reply from Congressman Bill Posey ( he has even slipped my name into it twice) at least it is a reply..

Thank you for contacting me to express your support for improving the foreign investor visa program. It is good to hear from you.

As you know, an E-2 treaty investor visa allows foreign nationals to enter the United States to develop and direct the operations of an enterprise in which they have invested, or are in the process of investing a substantial amount of capital. E-class visas require that a treaty exist between the United States and the principal foreign national's country of citizenship.

As you mentioned, foreign investors are generally considered to help boost the United States economy by providing an influx of foreign capital into the United States and through job creation. Especially during these difficult economic times, the entrepreneurship and increased economic activity spurred by foreign investors are important.

The E-2 Nonimmigrant Investor Adjustment Act (H.R. 1162) would make certain foreign investors, specifically those holding E2-visas, who have resided in the United States for at least five years immediately eligible to adjust status to permanent resident status. This bill has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee, where it awaits further action. Although I am not a member of this committee, please be assured that I will keep your support in mind should this bill come before the full House for consideration and as the Congress debates immigration reform.

Thank you again, Darren, for contacting me. For more information on my work in Congress or to sign up to receive my E-newsletter, please visit my website, http://www.posey.house.gov/. If I may be of service to you in the future, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

Bill Posey
Member of Congress

Well done you for your efforts and letter writing.

It is pleasing to read he has actually addressed the E 2 situation and not a bog standard Dear John reply

[byjove]

if you look at the next one, it is a bog standard letter! Very disappointing. Almost got excited some one was listening.

[Susie]

if you look at the next one, it is a bog standard letter! Very disappointing. Almost got excited some one was listening.

omg, you beat me to it, just read other reply, very disappointing

[Steve in clermont]

hey id just like to point out that for them to have created a bog standard letter they must already have reasearched and are fully aware of the situation.
You didnt really think they would reply to each and every letter personally ???

I think the action has been noticed enough for them to draft a letter specific to our cause, after all you could have got a really bog standard " we are looking into it " letter, that gets filed in the trash.

Victory comes through winning small battles

[kelly graves]

here's my reply and I only got my name mention once :-(


Dear Kelly:



Thank you for contacting me regarding immigration legislation reform. I appreciate hearing your concerns on this vital issue and agree that we should address comprehensive reform.



The issues facing our nation's immigration system are multifaceted. We must address comprehensive immigration reform, including the systemic causes behind migration, the securing of our borders, and the creation of a more efficient and flexible system in dealing with immigrants on a case by case basis.



H.R. 1751, the American Dream Act introduced by Congressman Howard Berman (CA-28), would begin the process of reassessing immigrants who came to this country as children and have strived to integrate themselves into society and better themselves academically. This bill was referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary, and the House Committee on Education and Labor.



Our immigration system needs to be reformed, and Congress must take action in a timely manner. Please rest assured that I will keep your views in mind when reviewing and voting on any legislation that pertains to our nation's immigration policies.



Thank you again for contacting me. Please visit my website at www.kosmas.house.gov to sign up for my email updates and to learn how I may be of service to you.




Sincerely,

Suzanne M. Kosmas

[chris]

At least we are getting responses.
I think folks are being naive if they think they will get a personalized reply to their letter. It ain't going to happen, with the volume of correspondence these people get. I know cos I used to do this stuff for government ministers in the UK in a previous life.
One thing I notice in Suzanne Kosmas's reply is that she talks about 'immigration' reform and the Dream Act, describing how 'these children' came to the US. Never once does she mention the bald fact that we have two issues, legal immigration and illegal immigration.
Even if they have comprehensive immigration reform, there will be those who cock a snook at the laws and still come here illegally.
As a legal entry into this country along with my family I have issues with how we are treated because we obeyed the law. I really don't give a fig about the ones who chose the break it, other than getting the Dream Act to delete the word 'undocumented' in the children description. in that way it will allow our kids to get access to LPR and citizenship in the same way that the illegals will have if the Dream Act becomes law. For those who did not attend the E2 Event, Senator Durbin's office (the sponsor of the Dream Act) confirmed that the Act as currently written will exclude the dependent kids of E2'rs because they are documented. Their office when pushed on this did say that they reckon deleting the word 'undocumneted' will be a relatively easy thing to do.

Keep the Faith.

[bobinalbuquerque]

Firstly the fact that replies with E2 mentioned in them can be viewed as success, previously standard response reply letters were general immigration policy.

I doubt that the dream act will move forward on its own,although it has fantastic support it will I think be part of CIR.I've spoken with aides extensively on the comparitive issues with E2 kids and have for the moment agreed with their viewpoint that for strategic reasons it is not beneficial to intertwine two groups that share the same goal yet have different dynamics.However, should the dreamact suddenly appear it is highly likely we would see support for an amendment so as to include E2 kids.

For anyone disappointed with the lack of a more personalised response from their congress or senate representative grab the initiative and visit their office.Your E2 story is more valid right now than ever before.

[Susie]

Firstly the fact that replies with E2 mentioned in them can be viewed as success, previously standard response reply letters were general immigration policy.

I doubt that the dream act will move forward on its own,although it has fantastic support it will I think be part of CIR.I've spoken with aides extensively on the comparitive issues with E2 kids and have for the moment agreed with their viewpoint that for strategic reasons it is not beneficial to intertwine two groups that share the same goal yet have different dynamics.However, should the dreamact suddenly appear it is highly likely we would see support for an amendment so as to include E2 kids.

For anyone disappointed with the lack of a more personalised response from their congress or senate representative grab the initiative and visit their office.Your E2 story is more valid right now than ever before.

Good advice, if at first you don't succeed etc.,

I would be grateful is when anyone speaks to their congressmen that they mention our site and this thread, it may help gain more momentum. At the same time I would be grateful if you could mention the fact that if the main visa holder passes away the spouse if immediately illegal and that their should be provision to allow the survivor to not only inherit the business but also the visa status, as things stand the moment the visa holder passes away then all the dependents are without status

There has recently been a law passed to protect widows or widowers of US citizens but sadly this excludes E 2 holders, green card holders or holders of any other type of visa

Please God, we get some CIR to benefit legals this year, god knows it is about time the powers that be cut us all a break !

[British Redneck]

Bill Nelson doesn't get it:


Dear Mr. Redneck:

Thank you for contacting me regarding immigration policy in the
United States. I appreciate your taking the time to share your opinions
with me.

Like you, I believe our immigration system is broken and needs
to be fixed. I voted to have a full debate and up-or-down vote on an
immigration plan in the Senate during the 110th Congress because while the
plan was not perfect, it would have been a first step toward reforming our
nation's immigration laws in a comprehensive fashion.

I also voted for H.R. 2638, which passed the Senate and appropriates
$3 billion in emergency spending; a substantial portion of that money will
go toward border fencing, infrastructure, and technology. The bill also
provides additional funding to increase the number of Border Patrol agents
and boost surveillance along the entire U.S.-Mexico border by employing
cutting-edge surveillance technologies--including virtual fences and
unmanned aerial vehicles--similar to those I added to other immigration
reform legislation.

I will keep your thoughts in mind if the Senate considers
comprehensive immigration reform in this session of Congress. Please don't
hesitate to contact me in the future, as your communication helps me better
serve you in the Senate.

Sincerely,
Senator Bill Nelson

[Steve in clermont]

I got that exact same email from Bill Nelsons office today

[InnVic]

Bill Nelson doesn't get it:


Dear Mr. Redneck:

Thank you for contacting me regarding immigration policy in the
United States. I appreciate your taking the time to share your opinions
with me.

Like you, I believe our immigration system is broken and needs
to be fixed. I voted to have a full debate and up-or-down vote on an
immigration plan in the Senate during the 110th Congress because while the
plan was not perfect, it would have been a first step toward reforming our
nation's immigration laws in a comprehensive fashion.

I also voted for H.R. 2638, which passed the Senate and appropriates
$3 billion in emergency spending; a substantial portion of that money will
go toward border fencing, infrastructure, and technology. The bill also
provides additional funding to increase the number of Border Patrol agents
and boost surveillance along the entire U.S.-Mexico border by employing
cutting-edge surveillance technologies--including virtual fences and
unmanned aerial vehicles--similar to those I added to other immigration
reform legislation.

I will keep your thoughts in mind if the Senate considers
comprehensive immigration reform in this session of Congress. Please don't
hesitate to contact me in the future, as your communication helps me better
serve you in the Senate.

Sincerely,
Senator Bill Nelson


its not he doesn't get it - its he didn't bother to read it....they saw the word immigration and some lackey in the office was told to send the bog standard "immigration" reply!

[Bayfield]

If you want a Congressman to read anything you need to include the magic words:

Donation
Substantial

Otherwise they just get a summary of the numbers for and against any proposition, I doubt E2 would warrant a category.

[Susie]

Zoe and Nina were invited to appear on a radio show this week.

They were on "The Justice Hour" with host Lisa Macci which is broadcast from Lake Worth near West Palm Beach in Florida.

To listen to the show follow this link and then choose the audio file that you would prefer.

http://www.lisamacci.com/thejusticehour/archives.html

Steve


Well done and said so excellently by Nina and Zoe

[British Redneck]

Adam Putnam has, at last, responded. Doubtless he was too busy trying to get his earmarks through...

Dear Mr. Redneck:



Thank you for contacting me regarding your support for the E-2 Nonimmigrant Investor Adjustment Act of 2009 (H.R. 1162). I appreciate hearing from you on this issue.



I introduced H.R. 1162 because Florida is a top destination for E-2 visa holders, bringing with them a spirit of entrepreneurship, significant investments, and thousands of jobs for Americans. It is clear these visa holders have had a significant positive impact on our nation's economy and in the communities in which they have settled. As the national unemployment rate reaches 10% and surpasses 11% in Florida, Congress should consider such measures which encourage economic investment and create jobs for Americans.



Again, thank you for taking the time to share your views. If you are experiencing difficulties with a federal agency, are interested in legislation that is pending before Congress or merely wish to express your opinions, please visit my website at www.adamputnam.house.gov. If you would like additional updates on this and other issues please signup for my e-newsletter at http://adamputnam.house.gov/signup.shtml.



May God continue to bless America.





Sincerely,

Adam Putnam
Member of Congress

Oh, and She-that-must-be-obeyed got the identical form letter today, as well, also, too.

[sirsuedio]

ok this is the letter i intend to send out on thursday, please let me know what you think

Dear Congressman / Senator

I would like to draw your attention to the plight of a group of investors who work and pay taxes in the US under a visa called the E2 Treaty trader investor visa.

My family and i invested our entire lives in coming to America and living the American way of life. Our visa has a tempory resident status with no pathway to a premanent residence. Apart from having to leave the country every 2 years, we have to endure regular renwals of the visa in our country of birth. The cost of taking my whole family to London every 2-5 years for a 5 minute interview is money wasted. The visa renewal process is precarious at best, and many visa holders will hold back on expansion because of the insecurity of our futures. This money would be far better put to use expanding the company and possibly employing more US citizens in our business.

My children are the products of the US education system. The children have been brought up as Americans, their freinds are here , their lives are here. Yet when they reach the age of 21 they are forced to leave thier homes and their friends or find their own way of obtaining a visa to stay. The economic cost of their education is lost if they are forced to leave.

This is where we would like your help.
Congressman Adam Putnam has introduced a bill originally penned by ex congresswoman Heather Wilson. The bill is known as H.R.1162. The bill if passed would address a number of issues affecting a significant number of visa holders. I would urge you to discuss this matter with your fellow senators and congressmen.
American needs entreprenures particulaly in the current economic climate. As E2 investors we are the perfect immigants, we are self supporting employers of US citizens. We have Invested our money ( most cases our entire life savings ) to be here. We are not here on get rich quick schemes , we are here because we belive in this country and its way of life.
The cost of supporting this bill is negligable compared to the benefits we as investors bring. We are already here, working , paying taxes and using the US education system. All we asked is that we be allowed to stay permanently.

On friday October 23rd a meeting was held in orlando by the EZ Visa reform organisation www.E2reform.org . A turnout of over 400 people representing 143 local businesses were present. Many more were unable to attend but nonetheless supported what we are trying to do.
From the 143 companies represented we took a poll to find out how much of an economic impact we really had on the local area. A combined total of 48.5 Million Dollars were invested in the area , with a combined annual turnover of 56 million dollars. To add to this we had a combined employee count of 776 employees.
These are significant numbers causing a positive impact on the local economy.
It is estimated that there are 120,000 E2 visa holders across American. If we use our local poll as a model we can approximate the following figures as a fair reflection of our economic impact on the US as a whole.
An investment of 40 Billion Dollars an annual turnover of around 50 billion dollars and an employee count of 650,000.

For more information of what we are trying to acheive please visit the website www.E2reform.org

Thank you for your time

Hi, I have just joined this site and read your letter, what can I do to help, I am one of those people you talk about. Sue

[byjove]

Hi, I have just joined this site and read your letter, what can I do to help, I am one of those people you talk about. Sue

Hi and welcome to expats. Please visit the introduce yourself section and tell us a little about yourself. Coz' we're a nosey lot lol

[British Redneck]

Sirsuedio - May I recommend that you spell-check, grammar-check and proof-read again and again. I found a lot of silly errors without even trying.

[Steve in clermont]

REDNECK ...

The letter you refer to was witten a while back ... it was spell checked beforebeing sent out .... i posted it ot get general feedback on the topic coverage thats all....

SIRSUDIO
Welcome to the site.
The day of action has passed , keep stopping by and checking www.E2reform.org , there will be more action coming.