Cobb County, GA:  The Georgia Indo-American Chamber of Commerce (GIACC) hosted a forum on May 14, 2025, at the Cobb Chamber of Commerce titled “US Immigration: Impact on You & Your Business”, addressing the complex challenges from rapid changes in U.S. immigration policy. Legal experts, HR professionals, and law enforcement discussed practical strategies to navigate issues like processing delays, visa restrictions, workplace compliance, and enforcement actions affecting employers, foreign nationals, and students.

Key points included:

• Over 147 executive orders have altered immigration rules, affecting visa holders, green card recipients, and citizens.
• Employers face labor shortages reliant on immigrants, especially in healthcare, but struggle with travel restrictions and visa compliance.
• Processing delays for family petitions and green card renewals have lengthened significantly.
• Exchange visitor programs face stricter scrutiny, with consular delays and increased risk of visa denial at ports of entry.
• Federal investigations into H-1B and L-1 visa compliance are rising; companies must maintain thorough documentation and employee training.
• Local law enforcement in Georgia does not routinely enforce immigration status checks, focusing on serious crimes only.
• Concerns were raised about students losing status due to abrupt SEVP actions and unreliable job placement services.
• Immigration challenges impact workforce stability, especially in aging Southeast Georgia, where immigration is vital for economic growth.
• The forum called for better public education, balanced policies, and cooperation among businesses and policymakers to address immigration’s critical role in the economy.

Moderator Anita Ninan emphasized the importance of staying informed and prepared amid an unpredictable immigration landscape shaped by increased enforcement and longer wait times.