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 on top of what is happening in the immigrant community.
Sharing knowledge is key to strengthening our communities. If you find this information useful, I encourage you to share it with your family and friends.
Also, if you are not already subscribed to our email distribution list, we invite you to do so to receive regular updates on immigration issues. The subscription form can be found at the end of this article. Your privacy is important and we will not sell or disclose your information to third parties.
Thank you for your support!
IMMIGRATION NEWS IN THE UNITED STATES
New York landscaping company to pay $1.1M after U.S. Department of Labor finds overtime and H-2B program violations
U.S. Department of Labor - February 21, 2024
Dario's Landscaping, accused of violating the FLSA and the H-2B program, will compensate 54 underpaid employees with more than $1 million following a three-year investigation by the U.S. Department of Labor. The company failed to pay overtime and manipulated records to circumvent the law, in addition to coercing H-2B workers, violating their labor rights. The penalty includes the payment of back wages, damages, civil penalties, and a one-year ban from participating in the H-2B program, evidencing a firm commitment to labor justice and compliance with federal regulations.
U.S. Department of Labor recovers more than $1 million in back wages for 859 Texas home health care workers
U.S. Department of Labor - February 20, 2024
The U.S. Department of Labor has successfully recovered more than $1 million for 859 employees of two Texas home health care providers, Alegre Home Health Care and Pas Home Care, after finding that they failed to comply with overtime regulations. These companies embezzled wages through fraudulent practices, such as failing to properly account for hours worked. This case underscores the importance of protecting labor rights and ensuring fair pay for workers in critical industries such as home health care.
ICE arrests 275 noncitizens with sex crime convictions in nationwide enforcement effort
ICE - February 23, 2024
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has conducted a nationwide operation, February 5-16, 2024, resulting in the arrest of 275 non-citizens with sex crime convictions. This effort reflects ICE's commitment to protecting public safety by targeting individuals who have committed sex crimes against innocent people, including children. These actions underscore the use of an intelligence-led enforcement model to optimize resources and enhance security in U.S. communities, aligning with ICE's mission to arrest non-citizens who have violated immigration laws and possess criminal histories.
ERO New Orleans arrests convicted felon
ICE - February 22, 2024
New Orleans Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) arrested a Mexican national previously convicted of felonies including forgery, fraud, and theft, among others. This individual, who had been removed from the United States four times, was arrested following a targeted operation based on a tip received through the ICE tip line. He is now in ICE custody pending removal proceedings to Mexico. This case highlights ERO New Orleans' commitment to locating, arresting and removing criminals from local communities, enhancing national security and enforcement of U.S. immigration and criminal laws.
This mother appeared on an Interpol list: ICE arrested her for 6 years
Telemundo News - February 22, 2024
Jessica Barahona-Martinez, who fled torture in El Salvador and had been granted asylum in the United States, was arrested by ICE and detained for six years due to an Interpol notice. Her case, described by her attorney as one of the most egregious ever seen, highlights the complexities and challenges of the U.S. immigration system.
Thousands of undocumented immigrants from at-risk countries have entered the U.S. since October
La Opinión - February 22, 2024
Since the start of the fiscal year in October, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has recorded the entry of 961,000 immigrants without proper documentation, including thousands of individuals from countries considered national security risks. Despite fluctuations in the number of border encounters, the presence of citizens from potentially dangerous nations raises national security concerns. The numbers include immigrants from Turkey, Mauritania, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan, among others, highlighting the complexity and diversity of the migration phenomenon and the challenges the United States faces in managing it.
"It's illegal": activists reject government initiative to close the border
Telemundo News - February 22, 2024
Activists and members of the American Civil Liberties Union criticize the measures considered by the government to close the border, arguing that limiting the right to seek asylum is inappropriate. These actions have generated widespread rejection among immigrant rights advocates.
Ocasio-Cortez criticizes Biden's immigration measures: "Imitating Trump is not how we're going to beat him."
Telemundo News - February 22, 2024
Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has criticized immigration measures being considered by the Biden administration, including possible border closures and a more complex process for applying for asylum. Ocasio-Cortez argues that mimicking Trump's policies is not the right strategy to address current immigration challenges.
White House weighs executive actions for U.S. southern border
Voice of America - February 22, 2024
The White House is evaluating the implementation of executive measures to manage the irregular arrival of migrants through the southern border, considering actions similar to those taken during Donald Trump's administration. These measures seek to reinforce control and security at the border.
The Border Patrol has made 6,400 arrests of immigrants with criminal convictions.
La Opinión - February 22, 2024
Since the beginning of FY 2024, the U.S. Border Patrol has arrested 6,400 immigrants with significant criminal records, including violent crimes such as murder, rape, child abuse, as well as drug and weapons trafficking. This figure reflects the ongoing challenge facing the United States at its southern border, where the number of migrant apprehensions has reached record levels, surpassing 2.3 million in fiscal year 2023. Current policies limit the number of asylum applications processed daily, contributing to the decision of many to cross irregularly. The situation at the border is complex, influenced by crises in countries such as Venezuela and Haiti, and exacerbated by the global economic effects of the pandemic. This context fuels the debate over border security and the management of irregular migration in the United States.
U.S. deports 51 undocumented migrants on one flight to Cuba
El Diario NY - February 22, 2024
The United States has deported 51 Cuban migrants to Havana, bringing the total number of those returned to the island this year from various countries to 243. This group, composed of 46 men and five women, is part of the 88 people returned in two air operations to date. The deportation flights, which resumed in November of last year, are part of a bilateral agreement for the return of inadmissible migrants held at the border with Mexico. This event highlights the continued cooperation between Cuba and the United States in the management of irregular migration flows, in the context of a growing wave of migration from the island to the United States, driven by a deep economic crisis in Cuba.
CPAC: Conservative forum threatens "mass deportation" in the face of migrant "invasion
La Opinión - February 22, 2024
The Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC), held in Washington D.C., has become the epicenter of the political debate in the United States, standing out for its strong anti-immigrant stance. During the event, which will culminate with a speech by Donald Trump, the idea of a "mass deportation" of the 11 million undocumented immigrants present in the country has been promoted. This rhetoric has been accompanied by discussions on the alleged migrant "invasion", abortion rights and foreign policy towards Ukraine. The likes of Tom Homan and Stephen Miller have reinforced the discourse, calling for extreme measures against irregular immigration and border security, reflecting an increasingly pronounced tilt toward extreme conservative positions among the Republican base.
Texas sues Catholic nonprofit organization for giving aid to immigrants
Univision News - February 22, 2024
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit against Annunciation House, alleging legal violations such as facilitating illegal entry into the United States and harboring aliens. The Catholic non-profit organization responds that the accusations are unfounded, highlighting its humanitarian work with immigrants.
Do you have questions about SB4? Immigrant advocates tour Texas and provide guidance
Univision News - February 22, 2024
Several organizations are working to orient immigrants about their rights in light of the implementation of the SB4 law in Texas, considered one of the strictest immigration laws in the country. Experts and immigrant advocates consider this law unconstitutional and seek to inform the community on how to protect themselves.
Court declares unconstitutional vote in local elections of permanent residents in New York
Univision News - February 22, 2024
A state appeals court declared unconstitutional the law enacted by Mayor Eric Adams that allowed some 800,000 permanent residents to participate in local elections in New York City. This decision has generated a broad debate about the rights of permanent residents in the U.S. democratic process.
New York Mayor announces cut in aid to immigrant asylum seekers
Univision News - February 22, 2024
New York City Mayor Eric Adams has announced a 10% cut in services to help new undocumented immigrant asylum seekers. This move seeks to avoid additional reductions in the city's public services budget, reflecting tensions between immigrant assistance and local fiscal constraints.
Campaign launched in Chicago to help low-income pregnant women
Voice of America - February 22, 2024
In Chicago, the family of a young immigrant mother, murdered in a heinous crime, has initiated a campaign to help low-income pregnant women by donating diapers and clothing. This initiative seeks to honor the memory of the victim, supporting mothers in vulnerable situations and highlighting solidarity and community support in times of tragedy.
Insecurity grows in New York's migrant shelters
Voice of America - February 22, 2024
Insecurity in migrant shelters in New York has increased, with reports of fights and harassment. Authorities are on alert for these incidents that compromise the safety of residents.
Has the arrival of migrants increased crime in the United States? We debate it
Univision News - February 22, 2024
Crimes committed by migrants have been a central issue in Donald Trump's presidential campaign, with one poll indicating that 57% of Americans see undocumented immigrants as responsible for an alleged increase in crime. This video analyzes public perception versus actual data on migration and crime in the United States.
The origins of the Tren de Aragua: from local extortion to expansion in Latin America
Univision News - February 22, 2024
The Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, which originated in 2005, began with extortion in the Aragua railroad sector and expanded internationally from its base in Tocorón prison. This criminal group has diversified its criminal activities throughout Latin America.
OTHER NEWS
Tribute to José Cruz Alba and his Mariachi Potosino in Chicago
La Raza - February 22, 2024
The National Museum of Mexican Art, located in Chicago's Pilsen neighborhood, inaugurated the exhibition "Mariachi Potosino. El Sonido de Casa," paying tribute to José Cruz Alba and his legendary group, Mariachi Potosino. The exhibit, which runs through November 10, 2024, celebrates the cultural and social influence mariachi had on Chicago's Mexican community for nearly six decades. It includes photographs, videos, newspaper clippings and artwork, documenting the history of the Durango immigrant and his contribution to keeping the mariachi tradition alive among generations of Mexicans in the United States.
Is panda diplomacy making a comeback? At the San Diego Zoo they think so
Telemundo News - February 22, 2024
The San Diego Zoo expects to host a pair of pandas this summer, continuing a tradition of diplomacy through the iconic mammal. This initiative seeks to strengthen ties between China and the U.S. through cultural exchange and species conservation.
This Guatemalan woman won a Grammy with an album she re-recorded in six hours.
Telemundo News - February 22, 2024
Gaby Moreno, a Guatemalan artist, won the Grammy for 'Best Latin Pop Album' for her work "X mí", an album re-recorded in only six hours. In an interview, Moreno shares the creative process behind this innovative version of her previous work.
Colorado museum showcases Mexican art through chairs
Voice of America - February 22, 2024
In Denver, Colorado, a museum highlights the wonders of Mexican art through a unique exhibit of chairs. These artist-designed pieces incorporate significant elements of Mexican culture, offering visitors an innovative perspective on tradition and creativity.
Organization promotes voting among young Latinos in Arizona
Voice of America - February 22, 2024
In Arizona, a community-based organization is dedicated to promoting voter participation among young Latinos, a demographic group that each year sees nearly 1.5 million of its members become eligible to vote. The initiative seeks to ensure that no young Latino is left out of the electoral process, emphasizing the importance of their voice in U.S. democracy.
U.S. housing crisis due to high prices
Voice of America - February 22, 2024
The housing crisis in the United States, the most severe in the last 30 years, is pushing many people to sacrifice their lifestyle for more affordable options far from their current communities. Escalating prices have made housing unaffordable for a large segment of the population.
Latinos face new challenges in obtaining mortgage loans
Telemundo News - February 22, 2024
The Latino community in the United States faces increasing obstacles in accessing mortgage loans due to market demands and the need for a good credit history. Experts suggest making informed purchases and minimizing financial risks.
Seeking to help tenants with pets in California
Telemundo News - February 22, 2024
In California, a legislative proposal seeks to protect tenants with pets by preventing landlords from imposing additional fees or denying leases for having pets. The measure is intended to make it easier for pets to live in rental spaces.
U.S. drug shortage puts patients in check
Voice of America - February 22, 2024
The United States is facing a drug shortage crisis, seriously affecting patients with terminal illnesses. The Senate has denounced this situation, while NGOs are seeking independent solutions to provide the necessary treatments.
AI and robots, the new "employees" at California restaurant
Voice of America - February 22, 2024
A California restaurant innovates with robot chefs and AI systems to take orders and charge customers. This technological breakthrough marks a milestone in the restaurant industry, optimizing processes and offering a new culinary experience.
Interactive: Find out what your municipality will be called and who the mayoral candidates are, according to the new distribution.
La Prensa Grafica - February 21, 2024
As of May 1, El Salvador will undergo a significant territorial change, reducing the number of municipalities from 262 to only 44. This restructuring, approved by the Legislative Assembly in 2023, will transform the existing municipalities into districts. In the 2024 municipal elections, voters will find on their ballots the new names of their municipalities, now named according to their geographic location (Centro, Norte, Sur, Este, Oeste) followed by the name of the department. La Prensa Gráfica has developed an interactive tool so that citizens can easily identify the new name of their municipality and learn about the mayoral candidates, thus facilitating informed participation in the upcoming electoral process.
Riding a bike to clear the streets... and the mind
Voice of America - February 22, 2024
Bogota has implemented a bicycle lane program every Sunday and public holiday for almost fifty years, promoting not only an alternative to alleviate traffic but also as a way to improve the mental wellbeing of citizens. This initiative highlights the importance of public spaces dedicated to exercise and recreation in urban areas.
International Finance Assistant Secretary Brent Neiman's trip to Ecuador
U.S. Department of State - February 22, 2024
Assistant Secretary for International Finance Brent Neiman visited Quito, Ecuador, on February 21, where he met with senior Ecuadorian government officials, including the Secretary General of the Presidency and the Minister of Finance. Neiman expressed U.S. support for Ecuador's recent security challenges and stressed the importance of working with international financial institutions to obtain funding. He also highlighted the work of the U.S. Treasury's Office of Technical Assistance, which advises Ecuador on government finance and combating economic crime, demonstrating the continued U.S. commitment to Ecuador's support and economic stability.
Analysis of the official plan to combat violence in Ecuador
CNN in English - February 22, 2024
Roberto Izurieta, Secretary of Communication of the Presidency of Ecuador, discusses the approach of President Daniel Noboa's government to confront criminal structures and reduce violence in the country. This analysis offers an in-depth look at the challenges and strategies in the fight against crime in Ecuador.
U.S.-Argentina Relations
U.S. Department of State - February 22, 2024
Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken's visit to Argentina reinforces bilateral cooperation on trade, human rights, and security. Celebrating 200 years of diplomatic relations, the United States and Argentina seek to strengthen their economic ties and global commitments, including support for economic reforms and combating climate change. Argentina, committed to reducing emissions and increasing renewable energy, exemplifies collaboration on sustainable development and regional security, highlighting the vital role of international relations in promoting shared interests and multilateral cooperation.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
I have used an artificial intelligence tool, programmed with specific instructions, to summarize each article or video. These summaries provide a quick overview of the most important topics.
Although these summaries are intended to be accurate, it is essential 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.
As the distributor of this information, I assume no responsibility for the details or interpretations of the summaries. My goal is to provide you with quick and efficient access to the most important immigration news, helping you stay informed and connected to your community.
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.
English 
Español