Here are some recent U.S. immigration news, an essential source to keep you up to date with changes and opportunities that may affect your life.
By reading these summaries, you will gain quick insights into critical issues, allowing you to make more informed decisions and stay abreast of what is happening in the immigrant community.
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IMMIGRATION NEWS IN THE UNITED STATES
U.S. is deeper in debt than ever: immigration will be key to paying what it owes
Univision Noticias - April 17, 2024
The United States faces an unprecedented level of public debt, reaching $101,000 per person by the end of 2023, with projections indicating a continued increase over the next 30 years. In this context, immigration emerges as a crucial factor in sustaining the economy and managing this indebtedness. The ability of immigrants to contribute to the economic system and help balance public finances is more important than ever, considering the political and social tensions this generates.
Congressional Democrats ask Biden Administration for work permits for "all" undocumented immigrants
Telemundo News - April 17, 2024
The Biden administration has introduced a new policy that will significantly ease the process for undocumented immigrants to obtain work permits in the United States. This measure, which seeks to reduce illegal employment and provide legal avenues to work, will affect hundreds of thousands of undocumented residents. Critics of the policy view it as an incentive for illegal immigration, while supporters believe it will help stabilize the labor market and ensure workers' rights. The policy includes measures to simplify the application process and broaden eligibility criteria, reflecting a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy under the Biden administration.
U.S. Senate Dismisses All Impeachment Charges Against Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas
Los Angeles Times - April 17, 2024
The U.S. Senate has dismissed all impeachment charges against Alejandro Mayorkas, Secretary of Homeland Security, ending an attempt by House Republicans to impeach him over his handling of the southern border. The charges, which included "willful and systemic refusal to comply" with immigration laws and "breach of trust," were deemed unconstitutional by Democrats, and the vote ended with a partisan outcome of 51-48 and 51-49. This event reflects deep political divisions and could significantly influence border security issues in an election year.
U.S. Senate holds vote on Mayorkas impeachment trial
Voice of America - April 17, 2024
The U.S. Senate, led by Democrat Chuck Schumer, has quickly neutralized the Republican initiative to impeach Alejandro Mayorkas, Secretary of Homeland Security. This legislative move puts an end to efforts to censure Mayorkas, accusing him of mismanagement of border policies. The decision underscores the political divide in dealing with immigration and homeland security issues.
Senate kills long-running Republican attempt to impeach Mayorkas in hours
Telemundo News - April 17, 2024
The U.S. House of Representatives quickly completed the impeachment process against Alejandro Mayorkas, Secretary of Homeland Security, dismissing the accusations against him that have fueled Republican impeachment attempts since 2021. This outcome reflects the intense partisan tensions and the complexity of immigration issues that dominate the national political agenda.
Waves of immigration drown out Joe Biden's good intentions
Bloomberg en Español - April 17, 2024
Joe Biden, since becoming president in 2021, promised to reverse Donald Trump's restrictive policies toward migrants at the southern U.S. border and improve cooperation with Central American countries to address the root causes of migration. However, continued waves of migration have complicated these efforts, showing that the challenges are greater than the measures taken. The Biden administration has sought to balance the reception of migrants with national security, but faces criticism for not achieving the promised changes quickly.
President Biden Announces Local Judicial Nominees for D.C. and New Nominee to Serve as U.S. Marshal
White House - April 17, 2024
President Joe Biden has announced his intention to nominate two extraordinarily qualified and experienced individuals to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, reflecting the president's pledge to ensure that the nation's courts reflect the country's diversity in both personal and professional backgrounds. The nominations include Carmen G. Iguina Gonzalez, who has served in prominent civil rights roles, and Joseph R. Palmore, an attorney with an extensive career in appellate practice and supreme law. In addition, Miranda Holloway-Baggett has been nominated as U.S. Marshal for the Southern District of Alabama, noted for her devotion to the law and her more than two decades of experience in the U.S. Marshals Service.
Attorney General Bonta Holds Contractor Accountable for Unpaid Overtime and Back Taxes Due to Relationship with Labor Intermediary
State of California Department of Justice - April 16, 2024
California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced the resolution of a complaint against Amalfi Stone & Masonry Company, forcing it to pay $826,000 for labor and tax code violations between July 2018 and May 2020. Amalfi, which used the services of unlicensed labor intermediary Fabio Anselmo of Florida, failed to report payroll taxes and pay overtime properly, affecting workers who primarily came from Florida and were unaware of their rights to overtime pay. The resolution includes back pay to 86 workers and civil penalties, demonstrating Bonta's commitment to protecting labor rights and ensuring a fair and competitive labor market in California.
Lawyers Ask Senate Committee to Eliminate Solitary Confinement of Immigrants
Univision Noticias - April 17, 2024
The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) has urged the Senate Judiciary Committee to eliminate the use of solitary confinement in ICE jails, calling it harmful and detrimental to the mental health of detainees. This regime, which involves isolating individuals for 22 hours or more a day, has been described as a form of torture and is especially harmful to those with vulnerable conditions. AILA has highlighted the urgent need for oversight and reform of these practices that infringe on basic human rights and undermine the dignity of immigration detainees.
Alleged flyers urging migrants to vote fuel border debate ahead of U.S. elections
Los Angeles Times - April 17, 2024
In the run-up to the U.S. elections, controversy has been generated by flyers found in several border cities allegedly encouraging migrants to vote. These flyers, which look professional and contain QR codes linking to voter registration sites, have sparked a heated debate over voter fraud and immigration policy. Critics argue that the flyers are a tactic to foment anti-immigrant sentiment and discredit the electoral process by suggesting that migrants might vote illegally, while proponents claim they are intended to educate new citizens about their rights. This situation highlights the volatile intersection of immigration policy and electoral politics, with significant implications for both areas.
Organization Denies Handing Out Flyers at the Border to Promote Undocumented Voting in the U.S.
Telemundo News - April 17, 2024
The Matamoros Resource Center, a humanitarian organization in northeastern Mexico, denied being the creator of flyers urging undocumented migrants to vote for President Joe Biden. These flyers, which went viral and caused conservative outrage, were highlighted at a congressional hearing with Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. Gaby Zavala, founder of the center, claimed that her organization does not encourage voter participation by non-citizens and that the flyers, found in the shelter's portable toilets, contained spelling and grammatical errors and do not represent her group's mission. The controversy underscores the political tensions surrounding immigration and the unfounded accusations of voter fraud associated with migrants.
Migrants must use CBP One application to avoid illegal crossings
Voice of America - April 17, 2024
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security recommends migrants use the CBP One app to manage appointments and legal processes at border crossing points. This digital tool seeks to minimize illegal crossings and facilitate lawful entry into the country, emphasizing the importance of following established legal channels and improving security for both migrants and border operations.
Migrants Cross Desert Danger from Heightened Vigilance in Northern Mexico
El Diario NY - April 17, 2024
With increased surveillance along Mexico's northern borders, thousands of migrants are opting for more dangerous routes through the desert to reach the United States. Recently, four migrants from Colombia and Venezuela were trapped in the dunes of Samalayuca, Chihuahua, trying to evade military checkpoints. These migrants face extreme conditions, without enough food and water, and often without money, forced to walk for days on end through the inhospitable desert. This phenomenon underscores the desperation and extreme risks many are willing to take to reach the hope of a better life.
Four Missing and Dehydrated Migrants Rescued in the Midst of a Sandstorm in Northern Mexico
El Diario NY - April 17, 2024
Four migrants from Colombia and Venezuela were rescued in the Chihuahua desert, specifically in the Samalayuca dunes, after becoming lost and trapped during a sandstorm. These migrants, who were attempting to evade military control in Ciudad Juarez, near the U.S. border, faced severe conditions of dehydration and danger. The rescue operation involved multiple agencies, including the National Guard and Civil Protection, who used a helicopter to locate them after the migrants shared their location via WhatsApp. This incident highlights the extreme risks some migrants are willing to take to cross the border.
The dramatic rescue of four migrants in a desert in Mexico: they were dehydrated and suffering from hypothermia.
Univision Noticias - April 17, 2024
Four migrants, originally from Venezuela and Colombia, were rescued in the Samalayuca desert near Ciudad Juarez and the U.S. border. These individuals were suffering from severe dehydration and hypothermia when Mexican authorities found them. This incident underscores the extreme dangers of migratory routes through the desert and the importance of rescue operations in these areas.
23 migrants died after coyotes resumed perilous California sea route
Univision Noticias - April 17, 2024
In a tragic event, 23 migrants lost their lives while attempting to cross the California Sea, guided by coyotes who took this dangerous route. The deaths were caused by drowning, hypothermia, among other complications. This increase in mortality is attributed to the recent increase in the height of the border fence, which has pushed coyotes to opt for riskier and less guarded routes.
Migrants Denounce Mistreatment and Violence by Mexican Migration Authorities
Telemundo News - April 17, 2024
Migrants have voiced severe complaints against immigration authorities in Mexico, particularly in Chihuahua, where they claim to have been subjected to mistreatment and violence during detention operations. These accusations arise in a context of high tension and intensified surveillance on migration routes to the United States, especially with more than 782,000 foreigners being detained in Mexico during 2023. The allegations include inhumane treatment and use of violence, which has drawn attention to the need to review and improve the conditions and procedures applied in these operations.
Migrants denounce kidnappings on the Mexico-Guatemala border
Univision Noticias - April 17, 2024
Groups of migrants who crossed the border between Guatemala and Mexico report being kidnapped in Tapachula by criminals who demand payment for their release. These criminals are marking migrants who pay the ransom with stamps on their arms, intensifying the climate of fear and vulnerability of these individuals as they attempt to reach safety and better opportunities.
Mexican Foreign Minister Alicia Bárcena Travels to Texas to Address Immigration and SB4 Anti-Immigrant Law
La Opinión - April 17, 2024
Alicia Bárcena, Mexico's Foreign Minister, has begun a visit to Texas, including cities such as El Paso, San Antonio, Eagle Pass, and Laredo, to discuss critical issues such as migration and the controversial SB4 law, which authorizes Texas authorities to detain and deport migrants. During her tour, Bárcena will also focus on trade and border infrastructure issues and will participate in meetings with strategic allies to address the repercussions of SB4 and other anti-immigrant measures. This trip highlights Mexico's commitment to migrant rights in the face of restrictive foreign policies and interest in strengthening bilateral relations in complex political and social contexts.
Mexico: Hundreds of migrants camp in Chihuahua
Voice of America - April 17, 2024
In Chihuahua, Mexico, hundreds of migrants have set up makeshift camps after Mexican authorities prevented their passage to the southern border of the United States. These migrants, mostly from Central America, are seeking better living conditions or family reunification in the U.S., facing the harsh reality of border policies that limit their transit.
Black Immigrant Rally in NYC Exposes Racial Inequalities
Los Angeles Times - April 17, 2024
In New York City, hundreds of black migrants, primarily from Guinea, gathered at City Hall to address racial inequalities in the shelter and immigrant support systems. During a hearing, they highlighted the difficulties faced by these migrants, such as limited access to shelters, assistance in their native language, and accommodations for their religious practices. Challenges include a maximum allowable shelter stay that disproportionately affects black immigrants, many of whom end up on the street due to lack of adequate housing. The city is considering proposals to improve data collection and eliminate quotas on immigration applications to address these inequities.
ERO San Francisco Arrests Fugitive Foreign National Wanted for Kidnapping
ICE - April 17, 2024
The Enforcement Removal Operations Office (ERO) in San Francisco apprehended a Romanian national on April 5 who was wanted in his home country on kidnapping charges. The detainee, 25, had previously been intercepted by the U.S. Border Patrol on several occasions and faces deportation proceedings. This arrest highlights ERO's critical mission to identify and remove noncitizens with criminal histories, thereby ensuring public safety and the integrity of U.S. immigration laws. During FY 2023, ERO arrested 73,822 noncitizens with criminal records, underscoring its essential role in protecting the country.
Indian National in ICE Custody Dies in Hospital
ICE - April 17, 2024
Jaspal Singh, a 57-year-old Indian national, died while in ICE custody at the Southeast Georgia Medical Center, St. Mary's campus. Singh, who had entered the U.S. legally in 1992 and was ordered deported in 1998, reentered illegally in 2023 and was detained by Border Patrol before being transferred to ERO Atlanta custody. An autopsy is pending to determine the official cause of his death. ICE is committed to providing safe and humane environments for all in custody, ensuring comprehensive medical care upon arrival and continued access to health services.
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ERO Baltimore Arrests Salvadoran MS-13 Member Convicted of Conspiracy, Armed Robbery and Weapons Charges
ICE - April 17, 2024
In Baltimore, Enforcement Removal Operations (ERO) arrested a Salvadoran national and confirmed MS-13 gang member convicted in Maryland of conspiracy, armed robbery and weapons-related charges. The 28-year-old entered the U.S. illegally on an unknown date and was apprehended near his residence in Germantown on April 15. Montgomery County Police had previously arrested the subject for several crimes, including armed robbery and weapons possession. ERO Baltimore deportation officers, when an immigration detainer was not honored by the local detention center, ultimately took custody of the individual, warranting his hold for removal proceedings.
OTHER NEWS
DOL to host online forum on federal workplace compliance with federal regulations
U.S. Department of Labor - April 17, 2024
The U.S. Department of Labor will host an online forum on May 8-9, 2024, focused on federal labor compliance, specifically in the construction industry. This forum aims to educate employers and workers about compliance with federal labor laws, including wages, safety and working conditions. It will feature discussions led by experts from various government agencies such as OSHA, IRS, and the Small Business Administration. The initiative highlights the government's commitment to enforcing labor laws and ensuring safe and healthy work environments. This proactive approach by the Department of Labor underscores the importance of compliance in preventing legal violations and promoting fairness in the workplace.
Fiscal Year 2025 President's Budget Request for the Transportation Security Administration.
Transportation Security Administration - April 16, 2024
David P. Pekoske, Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), submitted the President's FY 2025 budget request of $$11.8 billion to the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Homeland Security. This budget supports the new compensation structure for TSA personnel, aligning their salaries with the General System (GS) pay scale and improves the retention and recruitment of Transportation Security Officers (TSOs). Pekoske noted that TSA can now be more selective in hiring, reducing the need for large numbers of new TSOs. In addition, this budget allows TSA to continue to advance screening technologies such as CAT and CT machines, and maintain transportation security while handling increasing passenger volumes.
Exception to sanctions against Venezuela: Expiration of General License 44
U.S. Department of State - April 17, 2024
The U.S. State Department has announced the expiration of General License 44, which relates to sanctions related to Venezuela's oil and gas operations, effective April 18, 2024. This decision follows the failure of the government of Nicolás Maduro to comply with full commitments under the electoral roadmap agreement signed in Barbados in October 2023. Although some commitments were met, problems such as political suppression and unfair treatment of opposition members led the U.S. to withdraw the license. The U.S. will issue a 45-day temporary license for the phase-out and will review specific applications for continued post-event activities, reflecting ongoing efforts to support a more democratic and prosperous Venezuela.
The American dream of homeownership is further away than ever for many people
Telemundo News - April 17, 2024
In California, the American dream of home ownership has become increasingly unattainable, especially for Latino workers, with the median home price reaching $1 million. Experts say this phenomenon is due to a problem of insufficient supply that, coupled with growing demand, has inflated prices to levels prohibitive to many.
A Latina's euphoria upon learning she got into Yale (where she hesitated to apply)
Telemundo News - April 17, 2024
Metztli López, a young Latina from California, experienced a moment of euphoria upon receiving the news of her acceptance to Yale, one of the most prestigious Ivy League universities. The celebration, documented and shared by her family, underscores the importance of perseverance and the value of aiming high, even when you doubt your chances of success.
USC Cancels Valedictorian's Speech in Support of Palestinians Over Security Concerns
PBS NewsHour - April 17, 2024
The University of Southern California (USC) has canceled the commencement address of its 2024 valedictorian, Asna Tabassum, who has publicly expressed support for the Palestinians, citing security concerns. The decision, which has been praised by several pro-Israel groups and criticized by free speech advocates and the nation's largest Muslim civil rights organization, comes against a backdrop of increasingly intense social views mediated by the conflict in the Middle East and the role of social media in escalating security risks. Andrew T. Guzman, USC provost, indicated that the security risks for the event, which draws 65,000 people, were substantial. The university, trying to balance between security and free speech, has faced criticism for what some see as censorship of the student, who was majoring in biomedical engineering and minoring in genocide resistance, and for allegedly bowing to anti-Muslim and anti-Palestinian pressures. The decision has highlighted the complexity of managing campus security during periods of high political and social tension.
Muslim student banned from giving commencement speech over Israel-Hamas conflict publications
Univision Noticias - April 17, 2024
Asna Tabassum, a Muslim student at the University of Southern California, was banned from giving her commencement speech due to posts on her social media about the Israel-Hamas conflict, which were considered anti-Semitic by some. The university claims that this decision was made to maintain the safety of the educational community at a time of high global tension.
Latino President and Actress Among Time's Most Influential People
Telemundo News - April 17, 2024
A Latino president and a Latina actress were highlighted among Time magazine's most influential people. This annual list also included a Brazilian minister and a Spanish soccer player, highlighting the diversity and global impact of leaders and personalities from the Latino community in diverse fields such as politics, entertainment and sports.
USA: Workers who receive tips are to be compensated with wages
Voice of America - April 17, 2024
A new law in Illinois is proposing to increase the hourly wage for tipped workers, generating intense debate among restaurant owners and retailers. This legislative change seeks to provide more equitable compensation for employees in sectors such as hospitality, where tips often supplement base income significantly.
Bob Menendez to testify against wife in bribery trial, lawyers say
Univision Noticias - April 17, 2024
Senator Bob Menendez is preparing to testify against his wife, Nadine Menendez, in a trial where he is accused of accepting bribes from the governments of Qatar and Egypt. Menendez's lawyers suggest that he will defend himself by claiming ignorance of his wife's activities in an attempt to exonerate himself of the charges against both of them.
New York 'tax wizard' arrested on charges of tax fraud in excess of $$100 million
Univision Noticias - April 17, 2024
Rafael Alvarez, known as the 'tax wizard', was arrested in New York on charges of masterminding a tax fraud scheme in excess of $100 million. Alvarez, founder of ATAX, allegedly prepared thousands of tax returns with falsified data at various branches of his company. This case highlights the gaps and vulnerabilities within the tax system and the legal consequences of corporate malpractice.
The world remembers the author of "One Hundred Years of Solitude".
DW English - April 17, 2024
Gabriel García Márquez, the celebrated author of "One Hundred Years of Solitude" and Nobel Laureate in Literature, was remembered on the tenth anniversary of his death. Died on April 17, 2014 in Mexico City, his legacy lives on through activities planned by the Foundation that bears his name, including celebrations for his centennial in 2027. In addition, Netflix has announced the production of a series based on his most famous novel, promising to bring the magical world of Macondo to screens around the world.
Trillions of cicadas to emerge from the ground in the United States: here's what you need to know
Univision Noticias - April 17, 2024
This year, trillions of cicadas are expected to emerge in the United States, a phenomenon that occurs every 13 to 17 years and is notable for the intense sound they produce, comparable to that of an airplane engine. This extraordinary natural event offers a unique opportunity to study these creatures and their impact on the local ecosystem.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
These summaries provide a quick overview of the most important topics. While these summaries aim to be accurate, it is critical to read the articles or watch the full videos for a complete understanding. I share this information to help you stay informed, but the final interpretation of each article or video is up to you.
IMMIGRATION CONSULTATION
News and information found on the Internet is of a general nature and should not be construed as specific legal advice for any individual, case or situation.
Anyone who has questions about U.S. immigration law, including whether or not a particular immigration law applies to his or her situation, should immediately seek advice from a licensed and experienced U.S. immigration attorney to determine his or her immigration legal options.
Avoid being victim of immigration fraud and never consult with notaries, immigration consultants, paper-fillers, multi-services and others. unlicensed persons to obtain immigration legal advice.
Nelson A. Castillo is an immigration attorney with more than 20 years of legal experience and author of La Tarjeta Verde: Cómo Obtener la Residencia Permanente en los Estados Unidos (Green Card: How to Obtain Permanent Residence in the United States). He is a former President of the Hispanic National Bar Association and the Westlake South Neighborhood Council of Los Angeles.
For information on how to schedule an immigration consultation with Dr. Castillo, click here. click here.
