Welcome Back! 👋🏼

Dear Readers,

We're very excited to have you back for the latest edition of the NawLaw Report, where we keep you informed about crucial immigration news, updates from our firm, and much more. This week we’re bringing you the latest developments in immigration law from various states across the U.S. , as well as the most recent announcement from USCIS. At NawLaw, we're here to support you every step of the way!

USCIS Announces Employment Authorization Procedures for Palestinians Covered by Deferred Enforced Departure

The recent announcement discusses the procedures established by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for Palestinians covered by Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) to apply for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) valid through August 13, 2025. President Biden's memorandum issued on February 14, 2024, deferred the removal of certain Palestinians until the specified date. The memorandum also directs the Department of Homeland Security to facilitate employment authorization for eligible Palestinians and consider easing regulatory requirements for Palestinian F-1 nonimmigrant students. The Federal Register notice outlines eligibility criteria and acceptable documentation for DED, emphasizing fair and efficient adjudication of EAD applications by USCIS. Additionally, a Special Student Relief notice allows eligible Palestinian F-1 students to seek employment authorization and adjust their course load while maintaining F-1 status during the DED period. The announcement clarifies that there is no separate application for DED; eligible Palestinians apply for an EAD using Form I-765, and those wishing to travel must file Form I-131.

Iowa Governor Signs Bill that Gives State Authority to Arrest and Deport Migrants

Governor Kim Reynolds recently signed a law in Iowa making it a state crime for individuals previously denied admission to or removed from the US to be in the state. Effective from July 1, it mirrors a Texas law facing legal challenges and reflects tensions between Republican-led states and the Biden administration over immigration. Louisiana also seeks to expand state authority over border enforcement. Critics argue such measures are unconstitutional and unlikely to enhance public safety. Iowa law enforcement expresses concerns about implementation and enforcement, emphasizing their duty to ensure community safety regardless of immigration status. Iowa's immigrant community groups organize informational sessions to address concerns about safety and interactions with law enforcement.

Oklahoma Legislature Passes Controversial Immigration Bill Criminalizing “Impermissible Occupation”

The Oklahoma House of Representatives recently passed House Bill 4156, proposing the creation of the criminal act of impermissible occupation targeting individuals who enter and remain in Oklahoma without legal authorization. Impermissible occupation is defined as the act of a noncitizen entering and remaining in the state without legal authorization, with penalties including misdemeanor charges for first offenses and felony charges for subsequent offenses. The bill also penalizes noncitizens with outstanding removal orders who enter or attempt to enter Oklahoma. Law enforcement is required to collect identifying information of those arrested for impermissible occupation, and proponents argue it upholds the rule of law and protects state borders. Critics, including Rep. Arturo Alonso-Sandoval, argue the bill promotes racial profiling and is strictly political, echoing similar legislation passed in Texas and Iowa

Over 1,000 African Migrants Swarm NYC’s City Hall Over Supposed Falsely Promised Green Cards

Around 1,300 African migrants recently gathered outside City Hall seeking to attend a hearing on the black experience in the city shelter system, with some claiming they were promised work visas or green cards if they attended. Only 250 people were allowed inside for the hearing, leaving the rest outside, where they chanted and cheered. Many were from Guinea and were reportedly drawn to City Hall by an activist group. Some migrants expressed frustration at not receiving the promised help. The City Council held the hearing to address issues faced by African migrants in shelters, including language barriers and lack of services. Activists rushed to clarify misinformation about green cards and provide information on available services. City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams emphasized the national importance of addressing the issue.

Maryland Act to Increase Healthcare Access for Immigrants Awaits Governor’s Signature

Maryland aims to address the healthcare challenges faced by immigrants by allowing them to purchase health coverage from the state's insurance marketplace through the Access to Care Act. This move is significant for the state's immigrant community, which constitutes 15% of the population. The legislation could alleviate pressure on clinics like the Esperanza Center in Baltimore, which currently provides free medical services to uninsured immigrants. By offering coverage options, the state hopes to reduce emergency room visits for primary healthcare needs, which are costly and inefficient. The Esperanza Center, overwhelmed by demand, is unable to accept all new clients seeking healthcare services. Immigrants often face barriers such as high costs and mistreatment when accessing healthcare, leading to delays in seeking treatment. Although the legislation awaits the governor's signature and federal approval, it represents a significant milestone in addressing healthcare disparities. However, concerns remain about enrollment barriers and the affordability of healthcare for low-income immigrants working in industries like hospitality and construction.

US Techie Sues TCS for Discrimination Against Americans and Favoring Indians on H-1B Visas

Randy Devorin, a long-serving US citizen at Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), has filed a lawsuit against the tech giant, alleging discriminatory employment practices. He claims TCS favors H-1B visa-holding employees of Indian/South Asian origin over older American workers like himself, targeting them for termination to make room for Indian nationals and "freshers." Devorin alleges that despite his efforts to secure a consultant role after his team was disbanded, he was hindered by the resource management group, while younger Indian employees swiftly secured positions. This lawsuit adds to complaints filed by 22 workers with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) accusing TCS of abruptly terminating their employment and replacing them with Indian workers on H-1B visas. The lawsuit also highlights discrepancies in the treatment of global managing partners, with Indian partners being rehired into different roles while others were not retained.

Pet of the Month🐱

Introducing Indie, April’s pet of the month! Indie is a 3-month old Siamese kitten and is the newest addition to her household. She loves to take long naps and hang out with her new friends Nova and Sunshine, last month’s pets of the month double feature!

We Are Your Trusted Source for U.S. Immigration!

About NawLaw: NawLaw, a very established law firm in New York City, boasts over 40 years of experience providing winning legal solutions for U.S. immigration cases nationwide and globally assisting companies abroad in transferring key personnel to the U.S. With a client-focused approach and a tremendous reputation for success, NawLaw is fully dedicated to helping its clients achieve the American Dream. We take U.S. immigration to the next level! At NawLaw, we think outside the box!