Department: Purchasing
Department Head/Elected Official: Paige McInnis
Regular or Supplemental RCA: Regular RCA
Type of Request: Contract - Amendment
Project ID (if applicable): 230184
Vendor/Entity Legal Name (if applicable): BakerRipley; Galveston-Houston Immigrant Representation Project; Justice for All Immigrants
MWDBE Contracted Goal (if applicable): N/A
MWDBE Current Participation (if applicable): N/A
Justification for 0% MWDBE Participation Goal: 0% - Specialized, Technical, or Unique in Nature
Request Summary (Agenda Caption):
title
Request that the County Judge execute an amendment to an agreement with BakerRipley in the additional amount of $58,667; Galveston-Houston Immigrant Representation Project, $186,667; and Justice for All Immigrants, $154,667 for additional services and changes to the payment language for Immigration & Naturalization Services Fund for the Housing & Community Development Department for the period of October 10, 2024 - October 9, 2025 (230184), Justification for 0% MWDBE Participation Goal: 0% - Specialized, Technical, or Unique in Nature.
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Background and Discussion:
There are approximately 424,000 Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs) in Harris County, most of whom are likely already eligible for naturalization (eligibility for citizenship is typically three or five years after obtaining residence). There are more LPRs in Harris County than there are naturalized citizens (33% vs. 29% of foreign-born population). Residents can still be deported or lose status if they don't become citizens. Naturalization also offers more economic opportunities and the chance to participate in democracy (voting, running for office, jury duty). A Stanford study found that removing the cost barrier for naturalization ($725 to file per person) dramatically increases the likelihood they will file for naturalization
Expected Impact:
The approval of this item will allow for direct legal services needed for the operation of the Immigration Na...
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