they didn't commit any crime. overstaying a visa is a civil violation. removal is not automatic. discretion is allowed especially if they have American citizen dependents, have been here 10 years +, are working, committed no crimes ...
along the lines of a parking meter violation; which on the face appeared too be corrected. most people would think receiving a federal work permit, a state issued Real ID, and a sponsored application for a green card means they are legally present. there was no intent be here illegally.
So immigration laws passed by Congress are not applicable ?
Sad
From AI .....
"Under current U.S. immigration law (Immigration and Nationality Act/INA), a visa overstay is primarily a civil immigration violation, not a criminal offense that automatically leads to jail time. It triggers loss of status, potential removal, automatic visa voidance, accrual of “unlawful presence,” and time-based bars to reentry after departure. Consequences scale with the length of the overstay and whether the person leaves the United States.
uscis.gov
Authorized stay is governed by the I-94 Arrival/Departure Record (or electronic equivalent), not the expiration date printed on the visa stamp. Remaining past the “Admit Until” date (or otherwise violating the terms of admission) puts the person out of status.
legalclarity.org