In a move that has sparked both praise and controversy, Michigan Governor Sarah Davis signed a new immigration policy into law on February 22, 2026. The new law, known as the Michigan Immigration Reform Act, aims to overhaul the state's immigration system and address concerns surrounding undocumented immigrants living in Michigan.Under the new law, undocumented immigrants residing in Michigan will be given a pathway to legal status through a series of requirements, including background checks, English language proficiency tests, and payment of fines. The law also includes provisions for increasing resources for immigration enforcement and border security, as well as measures to promote immigrant integration and participation in local communities.Governor Davis, a Democrat, hailed the new law as a step towards creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for immigrants in Michigan. In a statement, she said, "This law represents our commitment to upholding the values of fairness and equality for all residents of our state, regardless of their immigration status. We believe that by providing a pathway to legal status, we can better integrate immigrant communities and contribute to the overall economic and social well-being of Michigan."However, not everyone is pleased with the new policy. Critics argue that the law is overly lenient on undocumented immigrants and could encourage further illegal immigration. Some Republican lawmakers have expressed concerns about the financial burden of implementing the new measures, as well as potential security risks.Despite the controversy, supporters of the Michigan Immigration Reform Act believe that it signals a positive step towards addressing the complex issue of immigration in the state. Proponents argue that providing undocumented immigrants with a path to legal status will ultimately benefit Michigan by increasing tax revenues, boosting the economy, and promoting diversity and multiculturalism.The Michigan Immigration Reform Act is set to go into effect on July 1, 2026, giving state agencies and immigrant advocacy groups time to prepare for the implementation of the new policies. As Michigan becomes one of the first states in the nation to pass comprehensive immigration reform at the state level, all eyes will be on the impact of this groundbreaking legislation in the coming months.