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.
IMMIGRATION NEWS IN THE UNITED STATES
USCIS updates guidance on late applications for extensions of stay and changes of status
USCIS - January 24, 2024
USCIS allows exceptions to late applications for extension of stay or change of status for extraordinary circumstances, including strikes, lockouts, labor disputes, or interruptions in government funding. The measure seeks to protect H-2B workers during labor disputes, avoiding negative impacts on future immigration applications.
"Oppenheimer" tops Oscar list, Spain and Chile get nominations
Voice of America - January 23, 2024
The 'devil's breath': a trap for tourists in Colombia
The New York Times - January 23, 2024
In Medellin, Colombia, tourists, especially Americans, are victims of violent robberies after being drugged with scopolamine, known as "el soplo del diablo" (the devil's breath). The drug, which induces unconsciousness and susceptibility, is used in Tinder dates and night spots. The U.S. Embassy has issued alerts about the increase in these crimes. Although deaths are rare, the number of robberies has grown, affecting Medellín's image as a safe tourist destination. Authorities face challenges in addressing these crimes, and arrests are infrequent, leaving the expatriate community on alert.
Alert in Colombia for Americans being robbed by women they meet on dating apps
CNN in English - January 24, 2024
In Colombia, there is growing concern about Americans being drugged and robbed by women they know through dating apps. Journalist Stefano Pozzebon recounts the case of "Carlos," an American expatriate in Bogota, who was a victim of this crime. After a night with no memory, Carlos ended up in the hospital. The U.S. Embassy in Colombia has issued warnings about the use of these apps due to an increase in incidents, stressing the need for caution and awareness of the risks associated with online dating abroad.
Dozens of immigrants use the floor of Boston airport as a place to sleep
La Opinión - January 24, 2024
Immigrants, including women and children, use Boston's Logan Airport as an overnight shelter in the face of overcrowded shelters in Massachusetts. Governor Maura Healey is seeking an additional $250 million to address the immigration crisis, as the airport and state police provide support to those affected. The arrival of undocumented immigrants in sanctuary cities is projected to increase, raising Massachusetts' immigration cost to $915 million.
Republican Greg Abbott proclaims Texas has right to "self-defense" after declaring immigration "invasion"
La Opinión - January 24, 2024
Texas Governor Greg Abbott asserts the state's "constitutional right" to "self-defense" after declaring an "invasion" of immigrants. He criticizes the Biden Administration for failing to enforce immigration laws and secure the border, claiming that Biden's inaction triggers Texas' right to defend itself under the Constitution.
Miami Cuban-Americans oppose impeachment of Biden's immigration official
El Diario NY - January 24, 2024
Influential Cuban Americans in Miami, including Mike Fernandez, reject the impeachment of Alejandro Mayorkas, Secretary of Homeland Security, accusing him of undermining the Constitution and being a baseless political attack. Mayorkas, who has pledged to cooperate, will testify in the proceedings while the House decides his fate.
Majority of ICE arrests are immigrants without criminal records
El Diario NY - January 24, 2024
The majority of ICE detainees, according to TRAC, are immigrants without criminal records, located primarily in Texas prisons. Despite not violating DHS rules, they face deportation. The Alternative to Detention (ATD) system monitors 192,490 individuals, using GPS shackles and the SmartLINK app to track immigrants.
AMLO met with U.S. congressmen to discuss immigration and cooperation issues
La Opinión - January 23, 2024
AMLO met with U.S. Congressmen, including Michael McCaul, Randy Weber and Henry Cuellar, to discuss immigration and development cooperation. The meeting, which was also attended by officials from both countries, focused on working together despite differences, amid Republican criticism of Biden's handling of immigration.
AMLO says DeSantis failed in Republican primary because of his anti-immigrant campaign
El Diario NY - January 23, 2024
AMLO attributes Ron DeSantis' failure in the Republican primary to his anti-immigrant campaign, warning Greg Abbott about following similar steps. He highlights good relations with Trump and Biden, noting the signing of the T-MEC and the opening of legal avenues for migrants under Biden, in a context of immigration challenges and drug trafficking between the U.S. and Mexico.
One migrant died and two others were injured after border wall fell in Texas
La Opinión - January 23, 2024
Three migrant women fell from the border fence in Clint, Texas, resulting in the death of one and injuries to the other two. The fall was recorded by CBP cameras and occurred as they attempted to evade Border Patrol. The investigation is ongoing, against a backdrop of 2,300 migrant deaths in Texas in the last three years.
Migrants decrease at border, as White House celebrates decision on barbed wire
Voice of America - January 23, 2024
Sending remittances costs 41% more expensive for immigrants
La Opinión - January 23, 2024
The cost of sending remittances from the U.S. has increased by 41% since 2018, according to a Wise study. "Junk costs" in foreign exchange transactions mainly affect California, Texas, Florida and New York. The survey highlights the negative impacts of hidden charges on services, in a context where the Biden administration pushes rules against abusive charges.
Migrants used to board 'La Bestia' train: now migrants avoid it to avoid detention
Univision News - January 24, 2024
Migrants in transit through Mexico, seeking to reach the United States, face new challenges as they avoid the train known as 'La Bestia' (The Beast) to avoid migration controls. This precaution, however, leads them to get lost or be returned to shelters in Tapachula, highlighting the difficulties and risks they face on their journey and the need for safer routes and more humane migration policies.
How they carried out the large-scale immigration fraud dismantled by New York prosecutors
Univision News - January 24, 2024
A New York law firm was busted for running a large-scale immigration fraud scheme, promising permanent residency in the U.S. to undocumented clients through false reports of domestic violence. Charging $6,000 per client, many ended up deported when they could not sustain the lies, highlighting the vulnerability of immigrants and the need for vigilance against such scams.
Hispanic and immigrant: the story of the woman who became mayor of Fitchburg, Wisconsin
Univision News - January 24, 2024
Julia Arata Fratta, of Argentinean origin, came to the U.S. for studies and decided to stay, establishing her family in the country. Noticing the lack of Latino representation in Fitchburg, Wisconsin, she became involved in politics, becoming mayor. Her story highlights the importance of immigrant representation and political participation in U.S. civic life, and how they can positively influence their communities.
New Hampshire primary: Trump wins again, Haley refuses to quit
Univision News - January 23, 2024
In the New Hampshire primary, Donald Trump won 54.4% of the vote, beating Nikki Haley, who won 43.5%. Despite Trump's lead in the Republican presidential nomination, Haley asserted that the race is far from over, refusing to withdraw. Haley's persistence and Trump's solid victory highlight the intense competition and changing dynamics within the Republican Party, reflecting a division and a struggle for party identity and leadership.
Trump defeats Haley for the second time in New Hampshire
Telemundo News - January 23, 2024
Donald Trump consolidates his position as the likely Republican nominee for the U.S. presidency after defeating Nikki Haley in the New Hampshire primary, adding to his previous victory in Iowa. This result strengthens Trump's position in the presidential race, highlighting his continued influence in the Republican Party and underscoring the importance of New Hampshire as a key state in the presidential nomination process.
New York to eliminate medical debt for millions of people: we tell you the requirements to be met
Univision News - January 23, 2024
New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced the 'RIP Medical Debt' project, aimed at eliminating the medical debt of half a million New Yorkers. Although it is not necessary to apply to be eligible, certain requirements must be met. This initiative highlights the Adams administration's effort to ease the financial burden on citizens, addressing a critical public health and economic issue, and marking a significant step in health care reform in the city.
Investigation into whether the Aragua Train is infiltrated in the U.S.: Why is this organization so fearsome?
Univision News - January 23, 2024
El Tren de Aragua, a criminal gang originally from Venezuela, is under investigation for its possible infiltration of the United States after leaving a trail of murders, drug trafficking and kidnappings in Latin America. Concern in the US follows a homicide potentially linked to the organization. The presence of the Tren de Aragua in the US underscores the international expansion of criminal gangs and the need for a coordinated and effective response to combat their influence and criminal activities.
What's known about the baby who died in a New York shelter
Univision News - January 23, 2024
In New York, a three-month-old baby girl died in the Queens County Inn, used as a shelter. The child, part of an Ecuadorian family residing there for nearly a year, is the second death recorded at this shelter, following a similar incident in December 2022. This tragic event highlights concerns about conditions and safety in immigrant shelters, underscoring the need for urgent action to ensure the well-being of the most vulnerable residents.
Texas Demands Border Patrol Access to Eagle Pass
Telemundo News - Date of publication not given
The Department of Homeland Security has asked Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton to clarify which areas of Shelby Park remain inaccessible to the Border Patrol in Eagle Pass. This request underscores the tension between state and federal authorities in managing the border, and highlights the importance of ensuring interagency access and cooperation to strengthen border security and effectively address immigration challenges.
Both Congressional benches seem to agree on immigration issues
Telemundo News - January 23, 2024
In a significant shift, congressional Republicans and Democrats appear to be moving closer to a consensus on immigration, focusing on limiting the number of immigrants who will receive parole. While this agreement represents a breakthrough in bipartisan collaboration, it has raised concerns among activists who fear that the restrictions could negatively affect asylum seekers and the overall immigration dynamic.
Agreement to grant fewer immigration paroles
Telemundo News - January 23, 2024
In an effort to balance foreign aid with domestic security, Congressional Republicans and Democrats have reached an agreement to reduce the number of immigration paroles. This agreement is part of a broader negotiation to pass legislation to increase aid to Ukraine and Israel, while tightening immigration controls in the United States, reflecting a compromise between foreign assistance and domestic immigration policies.
Lawyer of former Honduran president denounces "infiltration" of his legal team
Telemundo News - January 23, 2024
Raymond Colón, lawyer for former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernández, accused of drug trafficking, denounces an alleged "infiltration" of his legal team. Despite the challenges, Colón continues to lead the defense in a case that has captured international attention. The trial, which has been delayed by the addition of a new defense attorney, underscores the complexity and tension in high-profile cases involving drug trafficking and politics.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
I have used an artificial intelligence tool, programmed with specific instructions, to summarize each article. 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 full articles for a complete understanding. I share this information to help you stay informed, but the final interpretation of each article 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.
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