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.
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IMMIGRATION NEWS IN THE UNITED STATES
President Biden's Speech at the Presidential Medal of Freedom Award Ceremony
The White House - May 3, 2024
In a ceremony at the White House, President Joe Biden awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 outstanding individuals for their contributions to American society in a variety of fields. This recognition, established by President Kennedy, is awarded to those who have made meritorious contributions to U.S. national interests, world peace, or significant public or private endeavors. Among the honorees were activists, artists, scholars and community leaders who have profoundly impacted the nation's culture and politics.
A farm worker and an astronaut: two Latinas receive Medal of Freedom awards
Telemundo News - May 3, 2024
Ellen Ochoa, astronaut, and Teresa Romero, farm worker, were honored with the Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award in the U.S., highlighting their significant contributions to the values of the country. This award highlights the positive impact and progress both have made in their respective fields.
From recipes in a notebook to the kitchen of an iconic Chicago restaurant
Voice of America - May 3, 2024
The executive chef, a Mexican immigrant, is the main star of one of Chicago's most iconic restaurants. With two decades of existence, this restaurant not only offers Latin fusion dishes, but also provides a unique culinary experience that combines high quality food with a visual spectacle.
Reto Economía: Hispanic immigrant helps thousands of people in the U.S. find jobs
Univision News - May 3, 2024
Maryeli Mendoza, a Venezuelan immigrant, has created a company in the U.S. that assists in the recruitment of personnel for various companies, benefiting thousands of people with employment. Her business success contributes significantly, more than $100 billion annually, to the U.S. economy.
New law in Florida makes it easier for foreign physicians to practice medicine in Florida
Voice of America - May 3, 2024
The recent SB 7016 law in Florida, known as "Live Healthy" and signed by Governor Ron DeSantis, allows foreign physicians to practice in the state without meeting the prerequisite of three years of medical residency. This legislation seeks to expand the health care workforce in underserved and low-income areas by facilitating the integration of international medical professionals into Florida's health care system. The law represents a significant advance for immigrant physicians, although the activation of their licenses will not be automatic and will require the completion of an education and examination plan.
U.S. to provide health care to 100,000 Dreamers
Voice of America - May 3, 2024
The U.S. government announced that approximately 100,000 'Dreamers' will be able to enroll in health plans under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) as of November 2023, thanks to a new directive that redefines DACA participants as "lawfully present." This measure, although it did not include Medicaid enrollment as initially proposed, will allow these young people to access tax breaks and improve their health coverage, just before the presidential election, marking an important step for both their well-being and President Biden's health policy.
"I'm very happy": 100,000 dreamers will be eligible to get 'Obamacare'
Telemundo News - May 3, 2024
Thanks to a new federal government regulation, approximately 100,000 DACA beneficiaries will now be eligible to obtain health coverage through the Affordable Care Act, known as 'Obamacare'. The Secretary of Health, Xavier Becerra, explained to Telemundo News the details and scope of this access to health care for dreamers.
High temperatures in Arizona cause migrant deaths
Voice of America - May 3, 2024
High temperatures reaching 40 degrees Celsius in Arizona are causing an increase in migrant deaths. This increase has been documented through images showing the tragic effects of extreme heat on migrants attempting to cross desert areas. Authorities are being alerted to the need to improve responses to this problem, which intensifies with the summer heat.
USA: High temperatures cause migrant deaths in Arizona
Voice of America - May 3, 2024
In Arizona, the increase in temperatures to 40 degrees Celsius has resulted in an increase in migrant deaths. This situation worsens every summer, leading to tragic situations that are made visible through disturbing images. Voice of America's coverage includes testimonials and analysis on how these extreme conditions affect the migrant community.
More than 20 undocumented immigrants arrive by boat in Newport Beach, Calif.
El Tiempo Latino - May 3, 2024
A group of more than 20 undocumented immigrants disembarked at an exclusive marina in Newport Beach, California, and quickly dispersed into a nearby neighborhood. This event captured on video reveals a highly organized maritime smuggling operation. Local authorities and the mayor are discussing how to strengthen responses to these incidents, which not only pose local security challenges, but also reflect broader border policy and national security issues.
Biden strengthens his border team in the face of the immigration crisis
El Tiempo Latino - May 3, 2024
President Joe Biden is strengthening his border team by integrating Blas Nunez-Neto, currently undersecretary for border policy and immigration at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), to improve security and migration management at the U.S. southern border. This action responds to criticism and pressure to better control irregular immigration and is part of a broader Biden administration strategy that seeks to effectively respond to national security concerns and electoral demands related to border management.
Mexican Consulate on Wheels to visit L.A. to facilitate procedures for Mexicans
Los Angeles Times en Español - May 3, 2024
The Mexican Consulate in Los Angeles will deploy its "Consulate on Wheels" service in May, visiting three community centers to make it easier for Mexicans living in the area to process documents such as passports, consular plates and voter credentials. This initiative seeks to bring consular services closer to the community, improving access and efficiency in the processing of necessary paperwork for Mexicans abroad. Appointments must be scheduled in advance through the telephone line or the consulate's web portal.
Biden administration threatens to sue Iowa over anti-immigrant law
Univision News - May 3, 2024
The Biden administration has warned the state of Iowa that it will sue if it does not repeal SF 2340, which it considers one of the harshest anti-immigrant laws in the United States. This legislation, enacted by Republican Governor Kim Reynolds, allows local law enforcement agencies to arrest people on suspicion of being in the country illegally. The Department of Justice has given a deadline of May 7 for the repeal of the law, stressing that federal law takes precedence over this state rule.
North Carolina anti-immigrant bill passes in Senate
Univision News - May 3, 2024
In North Carolina, the Senate has passed HB-10 with 18 votes in favor and 16 against. This bill would force the state's sheriffs to collaborate with ICE for the arrest of undocumented persons. The bill will now move to the state House of Representatives for possible passage.
Denver implements restrictive measure for asylum seekers
El Tiempo Latino - May 3, 2024
Denver has implemented a new policy that significantly limits assistance to asylum seekers by not offering free room and board and requiring several prerequisites, such as valid identification and a work permit. This measure has been criticized for its harshness and for placing almost insurmountable barriers to those most in need. The city argues that these restrictions are necessary to manage the recent surge in immigrant arrivals, control financial resources, and ensure compliance with assistance regulations.
ICE conducts deportation flights for adults and families May 3
ICE - May 3, 2024
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), in collaboration with other Department of Homeland Security agencies, including Customs and Border Protection (CBP), conducted deportation flights for adults and families from April 29 to May 3. These flights included destinations in Central America, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico and Peru. If a noncitizen arrives in the U.S. and does not have a legal basis to remain, he or she will be promptly processed and deported under U.S. law. From May 12, 2023 through May 1, 2024, DHS has deported or returned more than 720,000 individuals, the majority of whom crossed the southwest border, including more than 109,000 family members.
ERO New York arrests Honduran citizen for fleeing after fatal accident
ICE - May 3, 2024
On May 2, New York's Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) arrested a citizen of Honduras, unlawfully present and convicted of fleeing the scene of an accident that resulted in the death of a person. He was apprehended without incident in Hempstead by a fugitive operations team based on an arrest warrant. This citizen was notified of his inadmissibility and will remain in custody pending his deportation proceedings. The ERO New York Field Office Director emphasized the importance of keeping individuals such as this one in custody to ensure public safety and order.
ERO Boston arrests Guatemalan national on child abuse charges
ICE - May 3, 2024
ERO Boston detained a Guatemalan national who was in the U.S. illegally and was arrested locally on charges of first-degree child abuse and domestic assault. Despite an immigration detainer, local judicial authorities released him before ERO could take custody. He was arrested on April 10 by ERO officers in Providence, Rhode Island, and will be held in ICE custody pending a future hearing before an immigration judge. ERO emphasizes cooperation with local partners to enhance public safety in the region.
Previously deported Dominican national sentenced for illegal reentry
ICE - May 3, 2024
A Dominican national who had previously been deported by ERO Boston was sentenced to eight months in federal prison after illegally re-entering the United States. This individual, previously convicted of drug distribution, was arrested by ERO officers following his sentencing on April 29 by the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts in Boston. The ERO Boston field office director stressed the importance of complying with immigration laws to protect public safety, emphasizing that they will continue to prioritize the apprehension and deportation of the most serious offenders in New England.
U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar and wife charged with bribery, illegal foreign influence and money laundering
U.S. Department of Justice - May 3, 2024
Congressman Henry Cuellar and his wife, Imelda Cuellar, have been formally charged with engaging in bribery and illegal foreign influence schemes. From December 2014 through November 2021, the Cuellars allegedly accepted about $600,000 in bribes from an Azerbaijani oil and gas company and a Mexican bank in exchange for favoring their interests in U.S. foreign policy and legislation. The payments were allegedly laundered through fictitious consulting contracts and shell companies. If found guilty, they face severe penalties including up to 20 years in prison for each of the multiple counts of money laundering and fraud.
Corruption charges filed against Henry Cuellar, Democrat Representative from Texas
Univision News - May 3, 2024
Henry Cuellar and his wife Imelda are facing federal charges of involvement in bribery schemes and illicit ties to the government of Azerbaijan. This indictment follows FBI investigations that included raids of their home and office in Laredo, Texas.
Cuellar's charges may involve "more than 100 years in prison".
Telemundo News - May 3, 2024
Federal prosecutors are charging Texas Democratic Congressman Henry Cuellar with bribery, unlawful foreign influence, wire fraud conspiracy and money laundering. Cuellar, who claims he is innocent, could face more than 100 years in prison if found guilty on all charges.
OTHER NEWS
Impunity in Mexico for crimes against migrants
Telemundo News - May 2, 2024
In Mexico, impunity for crimes against migrants is alarmingly high. Despite multiple cases of abuse and human smuggling, especially in trailers, very few reach trial. Judicial branch statistics show that between 2018 and 2023, only 35 convictions were issued for human smuggling, even though nearly two million undocumented migrants were detected during that period. Victims, often do not report for fear of retaliation or deportation. This context underscores a flawed judicial system that does not adequately protect victims or effectively prosecute criminals.
Images of Mexican agents beating migrants off 'La Bestia' (The Beast)
Telemundo News - May 3, 2024
In Zacatecas, disturbing images show Mexican agents using excessive force to remove migrants from the train known as 'The Beast'. While the migrants defended themselves with stones, the agents intensified their use of security batons. Regional authorities are investigating the incident.
Authorities rescue migrants abandoned in Mexico warehouse
El Diario NY - May 3, 2024
In the State of Mexico, authorities rescued 208 migrants of various nationalities, including Latin Americans and Asians, who had been abandoned in a warehouse. This rescue underscores the critical situation of migrants in transit, who are often victims of abandonment and exploitation by smugglers. These individuals were taken to the Sistema Nacional para el Desarrollo Integral de la Familia (DIF) where they received medical attention and food while authorities determined their legal status.
Informal trade in Argentina re-emerges as an option to face economic crisis
Voice of America - May 3, 2024
In the face of high inflation and increasing poverty in Argentina, street markets have become an important economic alternative. These markets offer products at lower prices, helping families to better cope with the country's economic situation.
San Salvador, Central America's oldest capital city
La Prensa Grafica - May 2, 2024
San Salvador is distinguished not only for being the oldest capital of Central America, founded in 1525, but also for its rich history and vibrant culture that reflects the diversity of El Salvador. This country, known as "the land of volcanoes", has 242 volcanoes and the largest lake in the region, Lake Ilopango. Despite being the smallest country in Central America, El Salvador has the highest population density in the region, which adds to its cultural and natural uniqueness.
El Salvador has one of the largest prison populations in the world, say organizations
Voice of America - May 3, 2024
El Salvador has one of the highest rates of deprivation of liberty worldwide due to numerous arrests under the exception regime. This approach to security policy has been criticized by several local organizations that monitor these developments.
Israel-Gaza: 4 keys to understanding the massive protests on U.S. campuses
BBC World - May 3, 2024
Pro-Palestinian demonstrations on U.S. college campuses are growing in number and intensity. These movements mainly oppose U.S. federal aid to Israel and agreements between universities and the Israeli state, recalling peace movements of the 1960s.
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.
