Computer Glitches

In an article by Spencer Hsu, the Washington Post reports that, as the White House and Congress prepare to overhaul the nation’s immigration laws, U.S. officials have concluded that they lack the technology and resources to handle the millions of applications for legal residency that could result from the changes and that several efforts to modernize computers have gone astray. Immigration officials have said for years that it is critical to update an antiquated, paper-based application process before the government grants a new path to citizenship for as many as 12 million illegal immigrants living in the United States or creates a temporary-worker program, as senators and the Bush administration propose.

Although not surprising, the story raises troubling issues.  With all of the focus on immigration and national security after 9/11 — and infusion of resources, why can’t we get basic computer systems on track?

Click here for the full story.

KJ