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Dear Readers,

We're delighted to have you with us again for the NawLaw Report, where we keep you informed about crucial immigration news, updates from our firm, and much more. Stay tuned for the latest developments, helpful insights, and resources to guide you through your immigration journey. We're here to support you every step of the way!

Appeals Court Blocks Texas Immigration Law Shortly After U.S. Supreme Court Action

A federal appeals court recently ordered the pause of Texas' controversial Senate Bill 4, just hours after the Supreme Court allowed it to take effect. The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, in a 2-1 decision, ruled to block the measure, which permits police to arrest migrants crossing the border illegally and imposes criminal penalties. The Supreme Court's prior order raised concerns among immigrant rights activists, leading to confusion over enforcement. The appeals court's decision follows the Supreme Court's rejection of the Biden administration's emergency application, signaling urgency for action. The Biden administration contends that the law contradicts federal immigration statutes and that states lack authority to legislate on immigration.

U.S. Supreme Court Broadens Judicial Review in Deportation Cases

The Supreme Court ruled 6-3 that federal courts can review decisions made by immigration judges regarding claims brought by individuals seeking to avoid deportation due to hardships faced by family members in the US. Justice Sonia Sotomayor, writing for the majority, stated that determining exceptional hardship based on established facts involves a mixed question of law and fact, making it subject to judicial review. The decision allows Situ Wilkinson, a citizen of Trinidad and Tobago living in the US without authorization since 2003, to present his case again regarding the potential hardship his US citizen son would face if he were deported. However, the ruling clarified that only the question of whether established facts meet the statutory eligibility standard is reviewable, while the immigration judge's fact-findings remain unreviewable. Justices Alito, Roberts, and Thomas dissented, expressing concerns about the potential broadening of the court's review powers outlined in a previous decision.

U.S. Adds 12,000 Special Immigrant Visas for Afghans; Advocates Say More Needed

U.S. lawmakers have approved an additional 12,000 Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs) for Afghans who supported the U.S. mission in Afghanistan, extending the program through 2025. While this move has been welcomed by advocates, it falls short of their request for an additional 20,000 visas. The SIV program, with a limit of 38,500 visas, offers a path to permanent residence and citizenship for Afghans who assisted the U.S. Efforts are ongoing to pass remaining provisions like the Afghan Allies Protection Act and the Afghan Adjustment Act, which would provide further support for Afghan evacuees. Advocates stress the importance of securing long-term stability and protections for vulnerable Afghans seeking refuge in the U.S. as negotiations for fiscal year 2025 budget are underway.

Louisiana Bill Would Put Immigration Enforcement in State’s Hands

The Louisiana legislature is poised to consider Senate Bill 388, mirroring Texas' controversial immigration law, amid legal challenges from the Biden administration and civil rights groups. If passed, the bill would authorize state and local law enforcement to arrest individuals suspected of being in the country illegally, echoing broader debates on states' authority in immigration enforcement. Modeled after Texas' law, S.B. 388 would criminalize unlawful entry into Louisiana, potentially aligning the state with an interstate compact for border security. Critics argue that such legislation would burden courts, drain resources, and fuel racial profiling, while supporters assert the state's right to protect its borders amidst concerns over national security. The bill's fate remains intertwined with the ongoing legal battle over Texas' law, underscoring the broader clash between federal and state jurisdictions in immigration policy.

Georgia Lawmakers Advance Bills Targeting Immigration Laws, Sanctuary Cities

Lawmakers in Georgia are intensifying their focus on immigration laws following the tragic death of University of Georgia student Laken Riley, allegedly murdered by an undocumented immigrant. In response, the Senate chamber passed House Bill 301, reinforcing a 2009 law against sanctuary cities and counties, threatening to revoke their state aid and potentially federal funding. The bill also permits the removal of elected officials and grants citizens the right to sue municipalities. Despite opposition from some lawmakers who argue existing laws already address sanctuary cities, the bill advanced with 33 yeas and 18 nays. Additionally, House Bill 1105 passed, requiring local law enforcement to notify the US Department of Homeland Security about suspected illegal immigrants in custody. Senators emphasized the bills aim to address public safety concerns and target criminals rather than immigrants. Both bills are now heading back to the House chamber for final passage, with the legislative session nearing its end.

Biden ICE Official Who Touted ‘Alternatives to Detention’ for Migrants to Face Congressional Grilling

The House Judiciary Committee has requested testimony from Claire Trickler-McNulty, an official from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), regarding a drop in deportations of migrants convicted of criminal offenses under the Biden administration. Republicans leading the committee expressed concern over ICE's removal of fewer criminal aliens compared to previous years, despite a surge in illegal border crossings. They highlighted data showing a significant decrease in deportations and detentions since 2019, coinciding with increased border encounters. The lawmakers questioned Trickler-McNulty's promotion of "alternatives to detention" for migrants, citing instances where individuals released under such programs went on to reoffend. They criticized ICE's shift towards alternatives to detention despite prior conclusions by the agency regarding their effectiveness. The case of Diego Ibarra, who absconded after being released with an ankle monitor, was highlighted as an example of the potential shortcomings of these programs.

The Town that Can’t Live Without Migrants, but Isn’t Sure it Wants to Live With Them

In Fremont, Nebraska, where meat-processing plants drive the local economy, the influx of Central American migrants has transformed the community. Despite the necessity of these workers for the local industries, a controversial law passed in 2010 aims to prevent undocumented migrants from residing within city limits. While some residents like Brenda Ray support the ordinance, citing concerns about illegal immigration, others acknowledge its limitations and the strain it places on city services. The presence of migrants has led to cultural changes and increased diversity in Fremont, with efforts made to accommodate newcomers, such as language classes and translation services. However, the law's enforceability remains questionable, and its impact on the community persists amidst ongoing debates over immigration policy.

Hundreds Gather in Dallas to Protest SB4

The controversial Texas immigration law, SB4, has faced legal battles recently, with the Supreme Court briefly allowing its enforcement before the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals imposed another freeze. Despite its current status, hundreds of North Texans protested the law in Dallas, criticizing its targeting of Latino and immigrant communities. Protesters expressed fears of police scrutiny and voiced opposition to SB4's provisions granting judges power typically held by federal officials. Governor Greg Abbott defended the law, dismissing claims of targeting Latinos and highlighting diverse immigration origins. Concerns over potential racial profiling and increased police presence, especially in border communities like Eagle Pass, were raised by locals. While SB4 remains on hold, law enforcement agencies are grappling with enforcement strategies, emphasizing adherence to existing laws against racial bias. Protesters aspire for their activism to instigate change, underscoring the nation's immigrant roots and aspirations.

Asylum Seekers from Ecuador, Who Came to Minnesota for Better Lives, Struggle to Find Work

Minnesota has witnessed a surge in asylum seekers from Ecuador, adding to its diverse immigrant population. These newcomers, struggling to find work, often compete for day jobs in Minneapolis, highlighting the challenges of assimilation. With nearly 13,000 immigration cases backlogged in Minnesota's courts, individuals like Alejandra face uncertainty, waiting for their asylum hearings scheduled years in advance. Despite their qualifications and aspirations for a better life, many Ecuadorian immigrants, including former professionals, struggle to secure employment, exacerbating their plight. While organizations like Involve MN offer assistance, addressing systemic issues requires political willpower and resources. The Minnehaha Food Shelf plays a crucial role in supporting immigrant families, providing essential groceries to those facing financial hardship. However, sustaining such efforts relies heavily on public donations amid rising demand and limited federal funding. Overall, the situation underscores the complex challenges immigrants face and the importance of community support in their integration process.

Biden and Harris Discuss Migration With Guatemalan Leader Arévalo

Vice President Kamala Harris hosted Guatemala's newly elected President Bernardo Arévalo at the White House, praising his anti-corruption efforts and collaboration on migration issues. President Joe Biden also congratulated Arévalo privately, discussing governance, migration management, and democracy. Harris highlighted her initiatives to address migration root causes, securing $5.2 billion in private sector commitments. They discussed the use of "safe mobility offices" to streamline the refugee process. Arévalo's presidency, marked by a strong anti-corruption stance and challenging entrenched power structures, has generated optimism, with Harris affirming U.S. support for Guatemala's democratic process. Arévalo expressed gratitude for U.S. assistance, emphasizing shared values and interests between the two countries.

🐾Pets of the Month🐾

March’s pet of the month is a double feature; meet Sunshine (left) and Nova (right)! Nova is still technically a puppy at 7 months, while Sunshine is his 7 year old aunt. When they’re not keeping each other occupied wrestling or playing tug-of-war, they’re filling their owner’s home with warmth and love. If you ever have the good fortune of seeing them in public, don’t hesitate to say hi!

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