The Immigrant's Journal - Vol. 202

The Immigrant’s Journal Vol. 202

A Journey for a Better Life & Justice

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Protecting God’s Children From Distant Lands 26 Court Street, Suite 701, Brooklyn, NY 11242

www.theimmigrantsjournal.com Tel: 718-243-9431

February 2024

Email: immjournal @aol.com

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he Office of Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (OIG) published a report last month finding that nearly one-third of medical procedures performed on immigrants in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody were not properly authorized.

The report found that ICE improperly authorized 32% of major surgeries per-

President Biden Cancels Student Debt for More Than 150,000 Student Loan Borrowers Ahead of Schedules ....9 Editorial credit: lev radin / Shutterstock.com

formed on individuals in ICE detention without having gone through the proper procedure first. Due to ICE’s improper authorization, the OIG audit could not verify whether the surgeries were medically necessary. The report also suggests that the forced hysterectomies performed by medical staff to women detained at the Irwin Detention Center in Georgia were not isolated incidents.

One of the issues noted in the report was that approval for these medical procedures was not given by the appropriate

BY RAUL OINTO IMMIGRATIONIMPACT.COM

Editorial credit: Consolidated News Photos / Shutterstock.com

ICE Subjected Immigrants in Detention to Unnecessary Surgeries, Report Finds

continued on page 4

Visa Options for Nurses to Immigrate to the US ....11

In Historic First, Construction Contractor Criminally Charged in Immigrant Worker’s Death

Immigration Politics Lessons from Tom Suozzi’s Victory in NY Special Election ....3

The landmark indictment charges Michael Conway with a felony and two counts of reckless endangerment following the death of immigrant worker Jose Vega.

Michael Conway, 59, who was overseeing the construction site when Vega died.

The indictment, which comes after a 3-year investigation, marks the first time Westchester County has ever held an employer criminally responsible for the death of a worker. Conway is being charged with criminally negligent homicide, a felony, and two counts of reck-

BY AMIR KHAFAGY DOCUMENTEDNY.COM

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hen 46-year-old immigrant construction worker Jose Vega was killed on May 4, 2021, his death was another incident in the growing number of trench-related fatalities for the year.

But on Monday, Vega’s death made history when a Westchester County Grand Jury indicted his supervisor,

Westchester County District Attorney Miriam E. Rocah. Photo courtesy: DA’s Office.

Being a Paralegal in New York ....6

continued on page 10

Heart Health: The Impact of Stress on Immigrants ....16

How Fatherhood Can Catalyze Positive Life Changes for Fathers and Their Children ....8

IN THE NEWS

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Data Snapshot: The Number of Black Immigrants in the US Continues to Rise

BY KAREN AHO AND QUINN BANKSON AMERICAN IMMIGRATION COUNCIL STAFF

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lack immigrants not only contribute to America’s rich political and cultural history—think rapper Wyclef Jean, U.S. Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, or basketball’s Hakeem “The Dream” Olajuwon, to name but a very few—they also play an important and growing role in our economy, making outsize contributions in industries facing critical worker shortages, such as healthcare and transportation.

Fast Growth of the Black Immigrant Population In one decade, the Black immigrant population increased by a notable 23.5%, from 3.5 million in 2012 to 4.3 million in 2022. While Black immigrants comprise just 1.3% of the total U.S. population, they concentrate in several large states with sizable immigrant populations.

Black immigrants are defined as any person who was born outside the United States to non-U.S. citizen parents and who identifies as Black or African

American in the American Community Survey.

The Black immigrant population has grown particularly rapidly in Texas, which nearly doubled from 172,000 Black immigrants in 2012 to 309,900 in 2022. However, Black immigrants in the state still comprise a small fraction of the populace—or 1.0% in 2022.

Of the country’s 4.3 million Black immigrants, 2.5 million—or 58.6%—are eligible voters. More than 20.3% of these eligible voters live in New York and 17.1% live in Florida, giving them more electoral power in state or local elections.

Most of America’s Black immigrants have moved here from the Caribbean and Sub-Saharan Africa, with the greatest numbers hailing from Jamaica and Haiti.

Employment, Taxes, and Spending Power In total, more than 2.8 million Black immigrants were in America’s workforce in 2022, supporting several fast-growing industries such as healthcare and transportation.

As American healthcare faces a rising

shortage of workers across the industry, Black immigrants are helping to fill the gaps. More than one-quarter of working Black immigrants (26.9%) are employed in the healthcare and social assistance industry. Among healthcare occupations, 138,900 Black immigrants work as registered nurses, 94,300 as personal care aides, and 24,400 as physicians. Despite comprising just 1.3% of the U.S. population, Black immigrants make up 3.3% of the healthcare and social assistance workforce.

Black immigrants also punch well above their weight in transportation and warehousing, where they make up 3.6% of the workforce. More than 101,900 Black immigrants work as truck drivers, another occupation that continues to experience fast growth. Black immigrants also comprise 2.0% of the military workforce.

While helping to fill critical job shortages, Black immigrant workers are also contributing to the public coffers and supporting local businesses through housing, food, lifestyle, and other expenditures. In 2022, Black immigrants in the United States earned $176.7 billion and paid $28.7 billion in federal taxes and $17.0 billion in state and local taxes, leaving them with $130.9 billion in spending power.

As we honor the struggles and triumphs of all Black Americans throughout history, let us not forget the increasingly vital role played by Black immigrants. With an aging population and rising labor shortages in critical fields, the United States benefits from the outsized contributions these immigrants make.l

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TIME FOR ACTION

Three Key Takeaways: Larger Immigration Politics Lessons from Tom Suozzi’s Victory in NY Special Election

BY AMERICA’S VOICE

Takeaway 1: GOP nativism again failed at the ballot box: Even in a GOP-held battleground district where immigration has been a flashpoint issue, and despite

Editorial credit: lev radin / Shutterstock.com

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ashington, DC: The following is a statement from Vanessa Cárdenas, Executive Director of America’s Voice, reacting to Democrat Tom Suozzi’s victory in the NY-03 special election, followed by three key takeaways for what it means for immigration politics in the 2024 cycle: According to Vanessa Cárdenas, Executive Director of America’s Voice: “Here is the message from last night on immigration: lean in, call out Republican gamesmanship, and be for border security and for legalization. The special election should put to rest the breathless hysteria around the power of immigration as a Republican wedge issue. Even after Republicans spent at least $9.5 million on anti-immigrant ads in this race, voters once again demonstrated that they want common sense solutions instead of GOP extremism and political gamesmanship.

Tom Suozzi should be commended for taking on the immigration debate headon. The ‘both/and’ strategy Suozzi adopted, imperfect as it was, offers a template for why leaning in and not avoiding the immigration discussion is essential, and how a broader focus on contrasts and solutions can work.

Democrats can be on offense now that Republicans have derailed all legislative actions and should articulate a plan that couples an orderly border with strong support for citizenship and broader reforms to create a system that benefits the American people, while also drawing attention to the extremism of the Republican agenda and their rhetoric.

‘Poisoning the blood’ and promising mass roundups to purge the country of the foreign-born are policies that weigh down GOP candidates.”

Below are three key takeaways about the Suozzi victory and larger implications for 2024 immigration politics:

at least $9.5 million of GOP-allied spending on anti-immigrant ads, the Democratic candidate Tom Suozzi won.

Running hard on nativism is not the electoral silver bullet Republicans pretend it is – continuing the pattern we’ve noted the last several election cycles (eg: 2018, 2020, and 2022 and off-cycle races when immigration was touted as the secret sauce that would supposedly unite the American electorate behind Republicans). If there were a race where this nativist strategy should have worked, it was this one. It didn’t.

Takeaway 2: Suozzi’s “both/and” approach to immigration is essential to understand – he didn’t just run as a border hawk, but also called out GOP gamesmanship and endorsed citizenship: Suozzi defined himself on border security and directly addressed voters’ concerns about related disorder. Bluntly, as immigration advocates, we have qualms with the specifics of how Suozzi established his related bona fides – most notably his repeat of the disinformation that the borders are “open.” Yet for all the rightful criticism, it’s important to understand the rest of Suozzi’s approach and to not let the short-hand takeaway be that “Suozzi won by running as a border hawk,” full stop. In fact, Suozzi adopted a both/and approach, addressing concerns over the border but also not stopping there and instead broadening his immigration focus.

Instead of avoiding the issue of immigration, Suozzi continued to lean into immigration and contrasted his approach with his Republican opponent and the larger GOP preference for politics instead of governing, as underscored by the recent GOP dysfunction on Capitol Hill. Meanwhile, he also expanded the conversation from addressing the shortterm strains faced by New York to the larger need for Congress to do its job and deliver a full overhaul of a broken immigration system and broadened the focus of what immigration solutions should look like by pairing a focus on an orderly border with full-throated support for citizenship and legal status for long-settled immigrants. One of the key distinctions between Republicans and Democrats is that Democrats favor allowing some level of legal immigration while Republicans now, almost universally, oppose all immigration, creating a sharp contrast for voters who are likely to favor legal immigration over no immigration.

Takeaway 3: Democrats should highlight the dangers of Republicans’ bigoted conspiracy language and Trump’s massdeportation plans: While following some of the broader Suozzi approach – leaning in and defining themselves for balanced, “both/and” solutions – other Democrats in other districts may want to also highlight Republican reliance on dangerous white nationalist conspiracies – a core part of the larger attack on MAGA extremism as well as an ongoing realworld danger to Americans. Another strategy is to highlight their opponent’s support for Donald Trump’s dangerous and potentially catastrophic plans for mass-deportations and a purge of longsettled immigrants in America. This is economically disastrous and would broadly target the foreign-born, their families, and communities in ways that are hard to defend.l The mission of America’s Voice (AV) is to build the public support and the political will needed to enact policy changes that secure freedom and opportunity for immigrants in America. Priority goal: win reforms that put 11 million undocumented Americans on a path to full citizenship.

TEAM Publisher I.Q. INC. Legal Advisor Brian Figeroux, Esq. Managing Editor & Editor-in-Chief Pearl Phillip Senior Writer Linda Nwoke Contributing Writers JR Holguin Janet Howard Chris Tobias Mary Campbell Graphic & Website Designers Praim Samsoondar Kendrick Williams Email immjournal@aol.com Visit www.ijlef.org Volunteering at THE IMMIGRANT'S JOURNAL LEGAL & EDUCATIONAL FUND, INC. Internship positions available throughout the year.

The Immigrant's Journal Legal & Educational Fund, Inc. is an organization dedicated to the educational and economic empowerment of all immigrants and immigrant organizations here in the United States. We at the Journal recognize the enormous contribution of immigrants to this country economically, socially and politically. Since September 11, 2001, however, immigrants have increasingly been discriminated against and Congress has passed legislation curtailing the rights of immigrants here in the U.S., broadly claiming that immigrants are a threat to ''National Security.'' We at the Journal believe that these charges are unfounded, unsubstantiated and exaggerated.

The Immigrant's Journal Volunteer Intern Program was introduced to give our volunteers the opportunity to work in an immigrant friendly environment while developing the necessary skills for college or law school. They assist our staff in resolving immigration and other legal concerns through personal interviews, radio, email and telephone contact. They also assist the public with citizenship applications and in researching whether or not children of naturalized U.S. citizens have derived citizenship from their parents. Some of our volunteers assist our legal staff by engaging in legal research and writing letters on other legal issues. Volunteer interns are also assigned various other jobs in our Youth Programs.

Hours are flexible. Email your cover letter and resume or any questions to immjournal@aol.com

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AMERICAN DREAM Unnecessary Surgeries/ continued from page 1 medical staff. According to the report, the ICE Health Service Corp (IHSC), which provides medical services to people in ICE detention, requires major surgeries to be authorized by certain personnel with a specific level of training and expertise. They must have a medical degree or equivalent and at least three years of medical training leading to board eligibility or certification that distinguishes them from other medical practitioners.

The OIG’s review of a sample of 227 surgery reports found that in 72 of them, the surgeries were approved by the appropriate level of personnel, such as nurses or nurse practitioners.

The OIG report also describes the gaps in ICE’s record-keeping system that led to these systemic failures. For example, the IHSC did not have adequate protocols to authorize major surgeries. The IHSC developed a flow chart to obtain the required authorization, but the flow chart did not include a description of the steps to follow, leading to medical providers approving major surgeries via email or sometimes even verbally rather than the authorization being recorded in the electronic medical record system.

Back in 2020, reports surfaced that women at the Irwin Detention Center faced forced and unnecessary hysterectomies. These reports were confirmed by an investigation from the Committee on

4 The OIG’s review of a sample of 227 surgery reports found that in 72 of them, the surgeries were approved by the appropriate level of personnel, such as nurses or nurse practitioners.

Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the U.S. Senate in November 2022.

The new OIG report suggests that medically unnecessary hysterectomies also occurred at other facilities beyond the Irwin Detention Center. To investigate the adequacy of records on the medical necessity of major surgeries approved by IHSC, the OIG analyzed procedures within the field of obstetrics/gynecology (OB/GYN). OIG hired an independent OB/GYN doctor to review the medical files for the hysterectomies performed on women in ICE detention between fiscal years 2019 and 2021.The independent doctor reviewed the medical files of six procedures and found two cases in which “the detained noncitizens’ IHSC medical files did not demonstrate that a hysterectomy was the most appropriate course of treatment and was medically necessary.”

A footnote in the report states that the contracted physician could not review an additional case because the hysterectomy was conducted on a woman detained at the Irwin Detention Center, and it had been referred for a separate review by the

Office of Investigations. This note suggests that the two hysterectomies for which there wasn’t documentation of medical necessity likely occurred at occurred at ICE detention facilities other than Irwin, indicating that the provision of unnecessary hysterectomies on detained women was not isolated to one problematic facility.

During its investigation, the OIG encountered the same problem transparency advocates have faced for years: the IHSC originally denied the OIG’s request for information and eventually disclosed limited data sets. ICE disputed the OIG’s assertion that it initially denied the request, claiming that ICE needed to extrapolate the data sought by OIG from a larger database that contained significantly more information because ICE did not have a data system explicitly dedicated to major surgeries. The OIG, however, affirmed its position that ICE’s initial rejection caused delays in the audit’s development.

Ultimately, the report admonished ICE to develop better protocols so that major surgeries for individuals in ICE detention are authorized by qualified medical pro-

fessionals within the IHSC. Surprisingly, ICE agreed.

People in ICE detention all too often face atrocious conditions of confinement. This includes systematic substandard care and sanitary conditions that have been described as “unsafe” and “filthy” by DHS’ own oversight agency.

It is appalling that immigrants in detention must also now endure the recovery from medical procedures deemed unnecessary or inappropriate.

In its response letter to the OIG report, ICE stated that it “strives to ensure detained noncitizens are housed in a safe, secure and humane manner.” Making sure that properly qualified medical professionals approve serious medical procedures, which can carry serious health risks, is but a small step to minimally improve conditions of confinement.

Further, ICE and DHS should do all they can to inform the public about how widespread this practice was and not pose barriers to oversight organizations and agencies investigating its practices.

ICE should have learned this lesson from the forced hysterectomies at Irwin.

These steps are the bare minimum ICE must do so that it lives up to its purported mission and not relegate to a footnote the stories of people who suffered consequences from improper major surgeries.l Raul Pinto is the Deputy Legal Director, Transparency at the American Immigration Council.

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IMMIGRANTS’ CONCERNS

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USCIS Finalizes Increase in Fees for Immigration-Related Applications

BY ADRIEL OROZCO

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y statute, USCIS is required to review its fee structure every two years. Unlike many other federal agencies, USCIS’s operations rely primarily—nearly 96%—on user fees. The last time USCIS proposed fee increases was in 2020, but their implementation was halted in court. As a result, USCIS has been relying on its 2016 fees. The new rule aims to account for inflation and to cover the overall costs of its services.

Employers will feel the brunt of the fee changes The largest increase in fees undoubtedly fall on employer-based petitions. In addition to the $600 Asylum Program Fee for certain employers, USCIS will also increase fees for processing petitions for temporary and permanent workers (Forms I-129, I-129CW, and I-140). Last year, USCIS proposed to increase these fees for all employers. The American Immigration Council and the American Immigration Lawyers Association submitted a comment raising concerns about the detrimental impacts these fees could have on small businesses and similar entities. In the final rule, USCIS decided to charge lower filing and asylum program fees to small employers (maximum of 25 full-time employees) and lower filing and no asylum program fee to nonprofits.

In addition, employers registering for the opportunity to file a petition for an H-1B (specialty occupation) worker also will see an increase in the registration fee from $10 to $215, which will take effect for the registration period in March 2025. USCIS has confirmed that the registration fee for H-1B “cap” numbers (available beginning October 1, 2024) that occurs March 2024 will remain $10.

For-profit employers with more than 25 employees petitioning for an H-1B worker starting in 2025 will see about a 239% increase in their total costs as compared to 2016. These new fees are in addition to the increase in premium processing costs that will take effect February 26, 2024.

Residency and family-based petitions will get more expensive USCIS also made changes to the lawful permanent residency filing fees. Since 2008, the filing fee for a green card application also covered the cost of work and travel authorization requests. Given that family-based residency applications are currently taking 12.3 months to process on average, this provided interim benefits to applicants while their green cards were adjudicated. To “encourage” applicants to only file requests that are needed, USCIS will unbundle these forms and require a separate fee for each.

However, instead of charging the full fee

for work authorization, it will charge half the full price if the request is filed concurrently with the residency application.

There will be no discount for travel authorization.

This change, coupled with an online filing discount, creates a range of fees for aspiring green card holders. For example, an applicant through marriage applying within the United States would pay between $2,065 to $3,005 if they wanted to obtain travel and work authorization.

This is compared to a standard fee of $1,760 under the 2016 fee rule.

The filing fee for an immigrant investor for a petition to remove the conditions from their permanent residence has increased from $3,750 (without biometrics) to $9,525, a nearly three-fold increase.

the proposed fee rule, the American Immigration Council and AILA noted that this discount was premature as there are only a limited number of forms available online and “there are significant issues with those that are available.”

Nevertheless, USCIS indicates that it hopes this discount will encourage more applicants to rely on its online system as it expands the types of forms for online filing.

Impact of New Fees on USCIS’s Backlog For years USCIS has struggled to timely

process immigration benefits caused by the lingering effects of the agency’s reduced operational capacity during the pandemic due to a sharp drop in revenue, shifting policies aimed at restricting legal immigration under the Trump administration, and technological deficiencies. In addition, USCIS has experienced a growth in low or no fee humanitarian applications, including for Temporary Protected Status and requests under the Biden administration’s new parole programs.

USCIS notes that these new fee increases are meant to allow it to keep pace with incoming cases and avoid future processing backlogs but that it will still require congressional support to eliminate its current backlogs. Despite a total of $275 million appropriation in 2021 and 2022, Congress has not recognized the need to provide USCIS with additional or recurring funding.

As a result, despite these fee increases, some of which are substantial, they may not translate into immediate improvement in USCIS’s processing times.l

New fee exemptions for humanitarian and naturalization applicants USCIS has also taken measures to remove fee-related barriers for vulnerable applicants pursuing humanitarian visas. The agency expanded fee exemptions for all forms associated with the processing of a U visa (survivors of certain crimes), T visa (survivors of human trafficking), VAWA (survivors of abuse by certain U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident family members) and Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (youth abandoned, abused, or neglected by one or both parents), among others. The stated goal of the agency was to create parity among the humanitarian-based forms of relief.

Middle-income and working-class applicants for naturalization will also see some relief as USCIS expanded eligibility for a reduced fee. Previously, individuals whose incomes were between 150% and 200% of the federal poverty guidelines could pay the lower cost. However, the new rule widens the eligible population to those whose incomes fall between 150% and 400%.

USCIS to provide $50 discount to online filers In its aim to encourage efficiency and affordability, USCIS is implementing a discount for online filers. Last year, USCIS proposed a range of discounts based on the type of form filed but opted to reduce the filing fees by $50 across the board in its final rule. In its comment to

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JOBS & RECESSION

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Being a Paralegal in New York

BY THE CHAMBER COALITION

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eing a paralegal is a rewarding and challenging career within the legal field. Paralegals, also known as legal assistants, play a crucial role in supporting lawyers and law firms by conducting legal research, drafting legal documents, organizing files, and assisting with case management. Here are some critical aspects of being a paralegal: Legal Research: Paralegals often research to gather information relevant to cases. This can involve reviewing statutes, regulations, case law, and other legal documents to support attorneys in preparing for trials, hearings, or other legal proceedings.

Document Drafting: Paralegals assist attorneys in drafting various legal documents, including contracts, pleadings, motions, and briefs. They must have strong writing skills and attention to detail to convey legal arguments and information accurately.

Case Management: Paralegals help manage cases by organizing files, maintaining calendars, scheduling appointments, and coordinating communication

between attorneys, clients, and other parties involved in the legal process.

Client Interaction: Depending on the firm and the specific role, paralegals may interact with clients to gather information, provide updates on case progress, and assist with inquiries or requests.

Specialization: Paralegals may specialize in specific areas of law, such as corporate law, real estate, immigration, bankruptcy, family law, or intellectual property.

Specialization often requires additional training or experience in a particular legal area.

Ethical Considerations: Paralegals must adhere to ethical guidelines and maintain confidentiality regarding client information and privileged communications.

They work under the supervision of attorneys and must follow ethical standards set by legal professional organizations.

Continuing Education: Keeping up with changes in laws, regulations, and legal technologies is essential for paralegals.

Many pursue continuing education courses, certifications, or advanced degrees to enhance their skills and stay current.

Teamwork: Paralegals collaborate closely with attorneys, legal assistants, and other professionals to ensure cases proceed smoothly and efficiently. Strong communication and teamwork skills are essential for success in this role.

Being a Paralegal in New York In New York City, you generally do not need a specific degree to work as a paralegal. However, most employers prefer candidates who have completed a formal paralegal studies program or have a bachelor's degree in a related field such as criminal justice, political science, or prelaw.

While a degree or certificate in parale-

gal studies is not always required, having one can enhance your job prospects and may qualify you for higher-paying positions or advancement opportunities within the legal field. Ultimately, the specific educational requirements for paralegal positions in New York City can vary depending on the employer and the nature of the work. It's essential to research job postings and consult with professionals to determine the educational qualifications and skills needed for the paralegal positions you're interested in pursuing.

The Chamber Coalition offers an outstanding Certificate Program at an affordable price of $550, that can provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to work as a paralegal. Some topics include legal research, writing, immigration, family, and access to CALI, which law schools use. You also get additional certificates from CLIO and Lexis Nexis.For more information, visit www.freeparalegal.org Overall, being a paralegal requires a combination of legal knowledge, organizational skills, attention to detail, and professionalism. It offers opportunities for career growth and advancement within the legal profession.l

Orientation is Monday, March 4, 2024

Join us via Zoom at 6pm

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BE EQUITY SMART

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4 Terrible Mistakes Made by Firsttime Home Sellers

BY EQUITY SMART REALTY INC

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here are a lot of different factors that go into selling a home for the first time that can make it a stressful process, but there are a few things home sellers should avoid for a successful sale. If you're going to be putting your home on the market in the near future and are hoping for quick success, here are some common mistakes you'll want to be sure to bypass.

Pricing Your Home Too High It's entirely likely that there's an amount you have in mind when it comes to selling your home, but it's important that your asking price is in line with the market conditions and what's being offered.

Instead of winging it, check the local neighborhood listings and see what similar homes are selling for so yours won't be left to linger on the market.

Forgetting the Small Repairs After you've put your home up for sale and have arranged an open house, one of the first things people will notice is the small repairs – like paint chips or loose doorknobs – that haven't yet been fixed.

Instead of letting this negatively impact the offers you'll receive, complete the lit-

tle fix-ups before you schedule your open house so potential homebuyers are not turned off.

Missing On Marketing There are so many avenues for selling a home these days that it can be hard to know which way to go. However, it's best to consider all of your options and utilize social media to widen the audience you'll attract. Keep in mind that if you're investing in a website or brochures, it's important to hire a good photographer to show your home in its best light.

Selling It On Your Own Hitting the market on your own can be rife with a lot of questions, so as a first-

time seller you may want to consider the services of a real estate agent. It's just important to ensure that the person you choose is qualified and has experience in your community so they can steer you in the right direction and offer up helpful advice when it's required.

Guidance Selling a home for the first time can be a stressful thing to take on, but by utilizing the right agent and having reasonable expectations, it may be off the market before you know it. If you're getting ready to put your home up for sale, you may want to contact one of our real estate professionals for more information.We are happy to help. Call us 888-670-6791.l

Call Equity Smart Realty at 888-670-6791. Get the best consultation!

Call 888-670-6791 26 Court Street, Suite 701, Downtown Brooklyn VISIT OUR WEBSITE WWW.THEIMMIGRANTSJOURNAL.COM FOR MORE IMMIGRATION NEWS & UPDATES

FAMILY MATTERS

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How Fatherhood Can Catalyze Positive Life Changes for Fathers and Their Children may include eating more nutritious foods, exercising regularly, avoiding harmful substances like tobacco and alcohol, and prioritizing regular medical check-ups.

BY CHRIS TOBIAS

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atherhood can be joyful and rewarding, but it isn't always easy.

Parenting is also very demanding, no matter how positive and rewarding the role can be. Fatherhood also has many ideals attached to it, meaning that some dads feel pressured to live up to high expectations. Although each man experiences the transition to fatherhood differently, the transition is always transformational—changing a father's perspectives, attitudes, and goals forever. Fatherhood is the state or experience of being a father, typically involving the responsibilities and joys of raising and caring for children. It is a multifaceted role encompassing various aspects, including providing emotional support, guidance, nurturing, and being a role model and teacher for one's children.

Fatherhood can catalyze numerous positive life changes for both fathers and their children. Here are several ways in which fatherhood can lead to positive transformations: Sense of Responsibility: Becoming a father often instills a strong sense of responsibility in men. They realize that they are now responsible for the well-

Improved Work-Life Balance: Many fathers strive to achieve a better work-life balance after becoming parents. They may reassess their priorities and adjust their careers to spend more quality time with their children, which can reduce stress and increase satisfaction in both personal and professional spheres.

being and upbringing of another human being, which can motivate them to make positive changes in their lives.

Increased Emotional Connection: Fatherhood encourages men to develop a deeper emotional connection with their children. This emotional bond can lead to greater empathy, compassion, and understanding towards their children and others in their lives.

Healthier Lifestyle Choices: Fathers often adopt healthier lifestyles to set a positive example for their children. This

Increased Patience and Understanding: Parenting requires a great deal of patience and understanding, and fathers often develop these qualities as they navigate the challenges of raising children. This newfound patience and understanding can positively impact their lives, including relationships with their partners, family members, and colleagues.

Focus on Personal Growth: Fatherhood often motivates men to focus on personal growth and self-improvement. They may seek out opportunities for learning and development to become better parents and role models for their children, leading

to enhanced self-esteem and fulfillment.

Stronger Sense of Purpose: Having children gives many fathers a profound sense of purpose and meaning in life.

This sense of purpose can drive them to make positive changes, pursue their goals with renewed determination, and strive to create a better future for their families.

Positive Impact on Children: The positive changes that fathers make in their own lives can have a ripple effect on their children. Fathers can empower their children to thrive and succeed in various aspects of life by modeling healthy behaviors, positive values, and strong character traits.

Overall, fatherhood is a profoundly fulfilling and rewarding experience that involves nurturing, guiding, and supporting children as they grow and develop into capable and responsible individuals.

It is a role that requires love, dedication, and commitment but also brings immense joy, pride, and fulfillment to those who embrace it. Fatherhood has the potential to catalyze significant positive life changes, benefiting not only fathers themselves but also their children and the broader community. l

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BIDEN ADMINISTRATION

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President Biden Cancels Student Debt for More Than 150,000 Student Loan Borrowers Ahead of Schedule

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resident Biden's decision to cancel student debt for over 150,000 student loan borrowers ahead of schedule marks a significant move in addressing the burden of student loans in the United States. This action on February 21, 2024 demonstrates the administration's commitment to providing relief to individuals grappling with the financial strains of higher education.

By canceling student debt for many borrowers, the administration aims to alleviate the financial burdens that often hinder individuals from pursuing further education, homeownership, or other life goals.

Additionally, it underscores the broader conversation surrounding student loan forgiveness and the need for comprehensive solutions to address the issue on a larger scale.

This decision may also have implications for future policies and initiatives related to student loan forgiveness and higher education affordability in the United States, as it sets a precedent for addressing the challenges faced by millions of Americans burdened by student debt.

Last year, President Biden launched the

•Canceling student loan debt for more than 930,000 borrowers who have been in repayment for over 20 years but never got the relief they earned because of administrative failures with IncomeDriven Repayment Plans.

SAVE plan – the most affordable repayment plan ever. Under the SAVE plan, monthly payments are based on a borrower's income and family size, not their loan balance. The SAVE plan ensures that if borrowers make their monthly payments, their balances cannot grow because of unpaid interest. And, starting in July, undergraduate loan payments will be cut in half, capping a borrower's loan payment at 5% of their discretionary income.

Already, 7.5 million borrowers are enrolled in the SAVE Plan, and 4.3 million have a $0 monthly payment.

The Biden-Harris Administration has also taken historic steps to improve the student loan program and make higher education more affordable for more

Americans, including: •Achieving the largest increases in Pell Grants in over a decade to help families who earn less than $60,000 a year achieve their higher-education goals.

•Fixing the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program so borrowers who go into public service get the debt relief they're entitled to under the law. Before President Biden took office, only 7,000 people ever received debt relief through PSLF. After fixing the program, the Biden-Harris Administration has now canceled student loan debt for nearly 800,000 public service workers.

•Pursuing an alternative path to deliver student debt relief to as many borrowers as possible in the wake of the Supreme Court's decision striking down the Administration's original debt relief plan.

Last week, the Department of Education released the proposed regulatory text to cancel student debt for borrowers who are experiencing hardship paying back their student loans, and late last year, released proposals to cancel student debt for borrowers who owe more than they borrowed, first entered repayment 20 or 25 years ago, attended low-quality programs, and who would be eligible for loan forgiveness through income-driven repayment programs like SAVE but have not applied.

•Holding colleges accountable for leaving students with unaffordable debts.l

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IMMIGRANTS’ RIGHTS

10

Immigrant Worker’s Death/ continued from page 1 less endangerment in the second degree, misdemeanors.

“For the first time in Westchester County, we are seeking to hold a contractor accountable for the death of a worker at a construction site that allegedly lacked proper safety measures,” said Miriam E. Rocah, Westchester County district attorney, in a statement shared with Documented. “My office will seek justice for the family of Jose Vega and continue to ensure workers’ safety remains a priority across the county to prevent fatalities like this one.”

The DA alleges that, as the site supervisor, Conway knew the excavation violated OSHA regulations, which require a trench deeper than 5 feet to have protections that prevent the walls from caving in. When the trench surrounding Vega collapsed, he was buried beneath thousands of pounds of dirt. By the time emergency services arrived, Vega was pronounced dead at the scene.

According to the indictment, Conway, the director of project development for construction company Lecher Development LLC, was responsible for ordering Vega and another worker to dig the approximately 9-foot trench without having the proper shoring or cave-in protections in place at the residential con-

struction site on Shore Acres Drive in the Village of Mamaroneck.

“The addition of this criminal enforcement effort by the District Attorney sends an even stronger message that high-hazard industries, such as excavation, must follow safety standards,” said Richard Mendelson, the regional administrator for the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), in a statement.

Vega’s death was far from a unique situation. In 2022, OSHA recorded 39 deaths caused by trench collapses. That same year accounted for the highest number of deaths by trench collapses in 18 years.

However, convicting an employer for criminal liability in a worker’s death is

extremely rare. While last year Brooklyn DA Eric Gonzalez prosecuted a construction company operator for the 2018 death of Luis Sánchez Almonte, who was crushed to death on a Brooklyn construction site, since 1970, there have only been 115 criminal prosecutions under the Occupational Safety and Health Act. The rarity also stems from how difficult it is to prove an employer was criminally negligent versus simply negligent. A prosecutor must prove an employer committed a reckless disregard for safety reasons, rather than just being an accident.

Additionally, OSHA has historically found ways for employers to avoid the threat of prosecution by downgrading serious fatality cases.

Through her Economic Crimes Bureau,

DA Rocah’s commitment to the case is indicative of her office’s policy of pursuing those who have victimized immigrant workers. Since taking office in 2021, Rocah has prosecuted those who have stolen millions in wages from workers or committed labor fraud.

The Village of Mamaroneck Police Department arrested Conway on Feb. 21 and he was arraigned on Feb. 23 before Supreme Court Judge James McCarty in Westchester County Court. Bail was set at $5,000 cash, $10,000 bond, and a $25,000 partially secured bond at 10%.

During the subsequent OSHA investigation after Vega’s death, the agency issued the site subcontractor, Mickels Landscape, Inc., six unsafe worksite violations. Five of the violations were listed as serious, and one was a repeat violation. The contractor was ultimately fined $40,000.

Conway’s next court date will take place on March 22. Lecher Development LLC did not respond to Documented’s request for comment. l Amir Khafagy is an award-winning new york city-based journalist. he is currently a report for America Corps Member with DOCUMENTED. Much of Amir’s beat explores the intersections of labor, race, class, and immigration. First published on Documentedny.com. Reprinted with permission.

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HOW TO GET A GREEN CARD

11

Visa Options for Nurses to Immigrate to the US

BY MARY CAMPBELL

A

cross the country, hospitals and nursing homes face a nursing shortage, and while there are many efforts to address the deficit, one that could mitigate the situation might be overlooked, migrant nurses.

The American Association of Colleges of Nursing details some of the factors that are causing the shortage: The expected demand for R.N. and APRN services needs to be met by enrollment in nursing schools. In 2020, over 80,000 prospective nursing school candidates were denied admission to bachelor and graduate programs because of a lack of skilled professors, clinical study sites, classroom space, and financial restrictions, according to recent research.

A sizable portion of the nursing staff is getting close to retirement. Nearly half of all registered nurses are now over 50.

As most baby boomers, those born between 1946 and 1964, make up the nation's older-than-ever population of 65 and older, more nurses are required to care for our aging population. This demography has grown from 41 million in 2011 to 71 million in 2019.

Additionally, the pandemic and inadequate staffing increased nurses' stress levels, adversely affecting their job satisfaction and causing many to quit their careers.

For these reasons, many hospitals are considering employing international nurses. Those who desire to work as nurses in the U.S. must adhere to U.S. federal immigration law and fulfill basic requirements if they intend to apply for any visa.

Applicants need to meet the education-

al criteria, take and pass an English language proficiency test, and obtain credential evaluation if required. Following that, applicants must pass the National Council Licensing ExaminationRegistered Nurse (NCLEX – RN). After Finding a nursing recruiting agency or a US-based firm, apply for an R.N. immigrant visa/green card, then ultimately interview and accept if a position is offered.

The most popular category for employment-based permanent residency is based

on getting a green card. This process could take up to one year. The employer must complete a PERM Labor Certification from the Department of Labor, which certifies that no U.S. citizens can fill the position offered. There are not enough Americans working in the "Schedule A" occupations of registered nurses and physical therapists; therefore, hiring a foreign nurse or physical therapist would not displace American employees who are already in demand.

H-1B is another common employment visa. This is a temporary work visa for foreign nationals with a job offer from a U.S. business to work in a "specialty occupation," such as nursing.

A TN Visa is additionally accessible to nurses from Canada and Mexico. If a nurse has a job offer, a license to practice in their country of residence, and meets the NCLEX and state licensure standards, they may work in the U.S. with a special T.N. visa.

The procedure of immigrating was not designed to be simple. And lawmakers try to make it challenging every year despite the need for immigrants in this

continued on page 13

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LEGISLATIVE UPDATES

12

DHS Changes H-1B Registration Process to Give Noncitizens an Equal Chance of Selection

BY LESLIE DELLON

D

epartment of Homeland Security’s U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently issued a final rule that changes H-1B registration selection and makes other changes related to the registration process. Beginning in March 2024, registration selection for the opportunity to file an H-1B petition subject to the annual “cap” on H-1B visa numbers will be “beneficiary centric.”

USCIS’ final rule is a partial implementation of the 94-page proposed rule issued in October 2023 to “modernize” the H-1B program and takes effect on March 4, 2024. Registration for H-1B visa numbers available beginning October 1, 2024, opens at 12 p.m.

Eastern Time on March 6, 2024.

USCIS received 1,315 comments of which 510 addressed the registration proposal. USCIS proceeded with a final rule on the registration-related topics, based on comments favoring a change to a beneficiary centric system before the next

registration period and on USCIS’ program experience.

Under the current system, USCIS selects from eligible registrations, which gives a noncitizen (the beneficiary) for whom multiple registrations were filed by potential H-1B employers a greater chance of selection than a noncitizen with a single registration filed for them.

In 2023, USCIS expressed “serious concerns” about whether abuse of the registration system resulted in the agency receiving more eligible multiple registrations than single registrations—408,891

compared with 350,103. USCIS anticipates that changing to selection by noncitizen-beneficiary “will reduce the potential for gaming the process to increase chances for selection and help ensure that each beneficiary has the same chance” of selection.

When USCIS selects a beneficiary with multiple registrations, those potential H1B employers each will have the opportunity to submit an H-1B petition during the filing period USCIS designates. As under the current system, a potential H1B employer may only submit one regis-

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tration on behalf of a beneficiary, but is not limited as to the number of registrations as long as each is for a different beneficiary (and meets the other registration requirements). USCIS views the beneficiary centric system as potentially giving the beneficiary greater autonomy and ability to negotiate over their H-1B employment.

As with the proposed rule, USCIS will not be notifying the employers that there are multiple registrations. The American Immigration Council (Council) and the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) had commented that not providing notice wastes resources of multiple employers, who should have the opportunity to perform a cost-benefit analysis, and increases agency workload from unnecessary H-1B petition filings.

While USCIS may approve multiple H1B petitions, the beneficiary can only work full-time for one of the petitioners.

USCIS separately issued a final rule increasing most fees for employmentcontinued on page 13

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LEGISLATIVE UPDATES H-1B Registration Process continued from page 12 based filings, including a change in the registration fee from $10 to $215. Since the new fees take effect on April 1, 2024, this increase will not apply to the March 2024 registration. However, potential employers filing H-1B petitions based on the selected beneficiary centric registration will pay substantially higher fees than last year.

The final rule also includes the following registration-related topics: •Requiring the beneficiary’s valid passport or travel document information for registration and restricting beneficiary registration to only one such document.

USCIS initially added only a passport requirement but in response to comments, including the Council and AILA’s, that this would exclude stateless persons, refugees, and others without access to a valid passport, USCIS added travel documents as “consistent with the Administration’s dedication to promoting access for refugees and stateless individuals.” Any discrepancy between the information provided for registration and the document used to seek admission to the United States, or the information provided in the H-1B petition may result in petition denial or revocation. However, the agency may use its discretion to find a change permissible, giving examples

such as a name change due to marriage or document renewal or replacement.

•Clarifying that “consistent with current USCIS policy,” the requested start date in an H-1B petition may be later than October 1 (which is the first day cap-subject H-1B visa numbers are available in a fiscal year). Until the agency was sued in 2021, and ended the practice, the agency had rejected some H-1B petitions that requested a later start date.

•Codifying that USCIS may deny or revoke a cap-subject H-1B petition when: ·The beneficiary’s identifying information in the petition has changed from the registration. ·The registration includes a false attestation or is “otherwise invalid” (potential H-1B employers attest that there is a legitimate job offer and they are not working with others to improve the chance of selection). ·The registration fee is invalid (meaning the agency could not collect the fee). ·The petition filed is not based on a valid registration.

•Codifying that USCIS may deny, or revoke upon notice after approval, an H petition (not just H-1B) when statements on any of the following are “inaccurate, fraudulent, or misrepresented a material

13 fact:” the H-1B registration (including a false attestation); an H petition; a Labor Condition Application that must be filed with the H-1B petition; or a temporary labor certification that must be filed with a petition for an H-2A temporary agricultural or H-2B temporary non-agricultural worker. While these regulations apply to other H categories, they are related to the registration process in their applicability to statements on the registration and capsubject H-1B petition filings.

•Adding a provision that the beneficiarycentric registration, delayed start date, and denial/revocation regulations may be separated (severed) if a lawsuit is filed and a court finds some but not all of the regulations invalid.

USCIS’ recognition that the registration system needed to be changed and its willingness to implement the beneficiary centric system in time for the next time cap-subject H-1B visa numbers will be available (on October 1, 2024) are a welcome improvement. But only Congress can alleviate the substantial demand for H-1B workers, and the loss of STEM professionals and other highly educated workers who leave the United States because they cannot obtain an H-1B classification, by increasing the H-1B visa numbers available annually to those not exempt from the cap.l

Visa Options for Nurses/ continued from page 11

country. It is beneficial for those interested in migrating to the U.S. as nurses to hire an immigration expert to assist and make the process more manageable.

Ready to migrate to the US? If so, Ask the Lawyer. The International Law Firm of Figeroux & Associates has a quarter of a century practicing immigration law. Brian Figeroux, Esq. is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) and is widely regarded as NY’s #1 immigration attorney. Ready for the next step?

Schedule an appointment at www.askthelawyer.us or call 855-768-8845.

Immigration law is dynamic and complex. The lawyer you hire does make a difference! l

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IMMIGRATION REFORM

14

Senate Deal Would Significantly Transform Border Policy

BY ADRIEL OROZCO

T

he “Emergency National Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2024” was released on February 4.

For months, a bipartisan group of senators negotiated the compromise bill, which proposes significant changes to asylum and border policy to release billions in foreign military aid.

The $118 billion bill would provide the president a new emergency expulsion authority that would be triggered upon a certain number of apprehensions at the border; increase the threshold for screening potential asylum seekers; and create a new protection process devoid of judicial review. The proposal also includes positive measures like a pathway to citizenship for Afghan allies, 50,000 more green cards per year, and protections for the dependent children of H-1B holders.

Last year, the Biden administration requested emergency supplemental funding to provide military aid to Israel, Taiwan, and Ukraine. That request also included nearly $14 billion for immigration- and border-related processing.

Republicans in both the House and Senate refused to provide funding outright and demanded asylum and border policy changes as well. The Biden administration joined the bipartisan group of senators to negotiate a deal to unlock the proposed funding. The administration, having struggled to manage the number of migrants at the border for months, indicated a willingness to accept stricter border control measures.

The result of those negotiations is a proposal that aims to transform asylum processing at the border. Some of the changes provide a glimpse into what meaningful bipartisan solutions could look like; however, others borrow from failed Trump-era policies that would exacerbate the situation at the border and harm to asylum seekers.

New Title 42-Like Expulsion Authority The bill creates a “Border Emergency Authority,” which, under certain circumstances, would allow any presidential administration to summarily deport migrants who enter without an appointment, not permitting them to apply for asylum. This authority is similar to the public health law under Title 42 used by both the Trump and Biden administrations to expel migrants at the U.S.Mexico border between March 2020 and May 2023.

The new emergency authority has several different triggers: border encounters reaching a daily average of 4,000 over a 7-day period; averaging over 5,000 during the same period; or reaching 8,500 in a single calendar day. At various points throughout the three years after the bill is passed, these standards would be discretionary (subject to the president’s decision-making) or mandatory: for example, if the bill becomes law, the administration

would be forced to implement the emergency authority for the first 90 days in which any of the triggers were reached.

Noncitizens presenting themselves at ports of entry would be counted toward the overall number of encounters, but non-Mexican unaccompanied migrant children would be excluded.

Noncitizens set for summary removal could only receive a screening for nonasylum humanitarian protection by affirmatively “manifesting” their fear of persecution or torture to a border official, which means they would have to volunteer that information without prompting or show an obvious sign of fear.

The bill would establish some limitations to this authority. For example, the government would have to allow people to seek asylum at ports of entry even during a border emergency. The bill would require the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to process at least 1,400 noncitizens daily across all southwest land border ports of entry. The bill would also allow DHS to opt people out of summary removal for a variety of reasons, including operational constraints such as overcrowding.

People summarily deported under this authority could be sent to their home countries, or, if the Mexican government is willing to accept them, sent to Mexico instead. A second deportation under this emergency authority would bar the noncitizen for one year from obtaining a visa.

The bill gives the federal government significant discretion over how to implement the new process and does not require it to be publicly announced. This could mean that, on any given day, a would-be asylum seeker would have no idea whether they would be allowed to seek asylum in the U.S. or not. Without established parameters, this could lead to significant confusion at the U.S.-Mexico border.

Faster Asylum Processing The bill also overhauls asylum processing at the border. First, it heightens the standard for the initial screening interview to make a claim for asylum. Instead of being required to establish a “significant possibility” that their claim would prevail— defined as a 10% chance that they would be persecuted—asylum seekers would need to establish a “reasonable possibility.” Under this standard, if the asylum officer believes that the odds of a successful asylum claim are a 50/50 toss-up, it must be rejected. This standard is currently used for other forms of protection from removal. In 2023, 65% of people passed their “credible fear interviews” for asylum, while 44% passed their interviews subject to the higher standard.

This heightened standard would be applied in a new 6-month process for migrants who present themselves at the U.S.-Mexico border without authorization to enter. This is in addition to expedited removal, which would also use the

Some of the changes provide a glimpse into what meaningful bipartisan solutions could look like; however, others borrow from failed Trump-era policies that would exacerbate the situation at the border and harm to asylum seekers. heightened standard. The bill ultimately requires all asylum seekers encountered at the border to be placed in either expedited removal or in this new process.

Asylum seekers who successfully pass the initial screening, called a “protection determination,” would be allowed to live in the U.S. but monitored under the government’s “Alternatives to Detention” programs. The government would have 90 days to conduct this initial screening at which an asylum officer could deny the claim, grant asylum or other protections on the spot, or pass the noncitizen through to a full “merits interview.” A merits interview must be conducted within an additional 90 days. Those with positive protection determinations, referred to a full merits interview, or who couldn’t be interviewed within 90 days, would become eligible for a work permit. Those whose claims are denied would be quickly removed.

The new process would be entirely overseen by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) with no role for immigration courts and very little judicial review of final decisions. Asylum interviews before USCIS are non-adversarial, unlike immigration courts, meaning that this could benefit asylum seekers.

However, the lack of judicial review raises serious accountability and due process concerns.

President Parole Authority One of the thorniest issues in the negotiations of this bill was the president’s parole authority. The Biden administration has used it to disincentivize migrants from taking the perilous journey to the U.S. This proposal doesn’t modify the application of parole beyond the southern land border. This means that the Biden administration’s parole programs—such as Uniting for Ukraine and for certain individuals from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela—would not be impacted by the bill.

However, parole would be severely limited for noncitizens presenting themselves at the border. The bill would require that all migrants either be placed in expedited removal or the new protection determination process. This means that noncitizens who schedule an appointment through the CBP One phone app will no longer be paroled into the country, as is currently done. Given the nearly $6 billion allocated to Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in the bill, including hiring new Border Patrol agents, there is an assumption that a combination of the new expulsion authority and these new resources will provide CBP the capacity to successfully manage the southern border.

Legal Pathways in the Bill The bill also includes some bipartisan

measures that expand legal immigration.

For example, more than 70,000 Afghan allies paroled into the country since 2021 could be eligible for conditional permanent residency after undergoing a rigorous vetting process. Conditional permanent residency would be retroactive, meaning that beneficiaries could have a shorter wait time to become citizens.

The proposal also provides an additional 50,000 immigrant visas per year for five years, with 32,000 for family-based petitions and 18,000 for employmentbased petitions. This would be the first increase in immigrant visas since 1990.

“Documented Dreamers” would also receive some protections. These youths entered as dependents on their parents’ temporary nonimmigrant visas and are at risk of losing their visa eligibility when they turn 21. The bill would allow noncitizens who were dependents on a parent’s H-1B visa for at least eight years to receive a work permit and have their age “frozen” while their green card application is pending. While this doesn’t go as far as the bipartisan America’s Children Act, which provides a pathway to citizenship and protects youth under other nonimmigrant visa categories, it would provide security for many youth.

Lastly, the emergency supplemental bill guarantees access to counsel for children who arrive in the U.S. without parents and are 13 or younger and for those who an immigration judge has found not competent to represent themselves.

These innovations could open the door to future universal representation for all immigrants at risk of deportation.

What Next for the Bill?

It appears that the emergency supplemental request faces an uphill battle in the Senate as well as the House.

Regardless of its future, this proposal has identified many of the key policy areas that need to be addressed, such as faster processing of asylum claims and expanded legal protections for certain vulnerable immigrants.

Unfortunately, the proposal misses the mark by failing to provide sufficient accountability measures and due process.

Furthermore, its adoption of a broad expulsion authority, which seemed unacceptable just a few years ago, may only serve to normalize similarly extreme measures in future policy conversations about border management.l Adriel D. Orozco is a Senior Policy Counsel at the American Immigration Council. Adriel is responsible for advancing the Council’s strategic goals by providing analysis and research on immigration policy issues, including those related to government accountability and efforts to improve the quality of due process in the immigration system.

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MONEY MATTERS

15

Transforming Your Financial Life

BY CHRIS TOBIAS

money towards your goals.

T

4. Reduce Expenses: Look for opportunities to trim unnecessary expenses from your budget. This could involve renegotiating bills, eliminating subscriptions or memberships you don't use, cooking at home more often, or finding cheaper alternatives for everyday purchases.

ransforming your financial life can be daunting but breaking it down into manageable steps can make the process much more achievable.

It involves significant changes to improve your financial situation, habits, and outlook. Here are some steps you can take to begin this transformation: 1. Assess Your Current Situation: Take stock of your financial standing by examining your income, expenses, assets, and debts. Understanding where you stand financially is crucial for setting realistic goals and creating an improvement plan.

2. Set Clear Goals: Define your shortterm and long-term financial goals.

These could include paying off debt, saving for retirement, buying a home, or starting a business. Ensure your goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).

3. Create a Budget: Develop a budget that aligns with your goals and helps you manage your income and expenses effectively. Track your spending to identify where to cut back and allocate more

5. Increase Income: Explore ways to boost your income, such as asking for a raise at work, taking on a side hustle or freelance gigs, renting out unused space in your home, or investing in incomegenerating assets.

6. Pay Off Debt: Prioritize paying off high-interest debt to reduce financial stress and free up more money for saving and investing. Consider using the debt snowball or debt avalanche method to tackle your debts systematically.

7. Build an Emergency Fund: Start saving for emergencies by setting aside enough money to cover three to six months' living expenses. An emergency fund provides a financial safety net and helps you avoid debt when unexpected expenses arise.

8. Invest for the Future: Begin investing for the long term to grow your wealth

and achieve your financial goals faster.

Take advantage of retirement accounts like 401(k)s or IRAs and other investment vehicles such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and real estate.

9. Educate Yourself: Take the time to learn about personal finance, investing, and money management strategies.

Plenty of resources are available, including books, podcasts, online courses, and financial advisors who can provide guidance tailored to your specific needs and goals.

10. Stay Committed and Patient: Transforming your financial life takes time, effort, and discipline. Stay focused on your goals, track your progress regularly, and adjust as needed. Remember that small, consistent steps can lead to significant improvements over time.

By implementing these steps and staying committed to your financial journey, you can transform your financial life and build a more secure and prosperous future for yourself and your loved ones.l

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16

HEALTH

Heart Health: The Impact of Stress On Immigrants

F

ebruary is Heart Health Month, which serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining cardiovascular health. Stress, particularly chronic stress, can significantly impact heart health, and this effect can be particularly pronounced among immigrant populations.

The Stress of Being a New Immigrant The stress experienced by new immigrants can be multifaceted and significant. Here are some key factors contributing to the stress of being a new immigrant: 1. Cultural Adjustment: Adapting to a new culture, language, and way of life can be challenging. Immigrants may experience culture shock, feeling disoriented, frustrated, or anxious due to differences in customs, values, and social norms.

2. Social Isolation: New immigrants may feel isolated from their support networks, such as family and friends, especially if they have moved to a new coun-

try alone. This lack of social support can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and make it difficult to navigate daily life.

3. Employment Challenges: Finding suitable employment in a new country can be difficult due to language barriers, lack of recognition for foreign qualifications, and unfamiliarity with the job market. Unemployment or underemployment can lead to financial strain and a sense of insecurity.

4. Legal and Immigration Issues: Navigating the legal and immigration systems of a new country can be complex and stressful. Immigrants may worry about their legal status, visa requirements, and potential deportation, particularly if they face discrimination or uncertainty in their host country's immigration policies.

5. Financial Pressures: Many immigrants face economic challenges, including the cost of relocation, housing, healthcare, and supporting family members in their home country and abroad.

Limited financial resources can increase

Editorial credit: MikeDotta / Shutterstock.com

BY PEARL PHILLIP

stress and impact mental well-being.

6. Healthcare Access: Accessing healthcare services in a new country can be daunting, especially if there are language barriers or unfamiliarity with the healthcare system. Concerns about affordability, insurance coverage, and cultural competence of healthcare providers may also contribute to stress.

7.Discrimination and Racism: Immigrants may face discrimination or xenophobia based on their race, ethnicity, nationality, or immigration status.

Experiencing prejudice or hostility can have profound effects on immigrants' mental health and well-being.

8. Family Separation: Many immigrants leave behind family members in their home country or are separated from loved ones during the migration process.

The emotional toll of family separation can be significant and contribute to feelings of sadness, guilt, and longing.

Managing Stress According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, research suggests that an emotionally upsetting event, particularly one involving anger, can serve as a trigger for a heart attack or angina in some people. Stress can contribute to high blood pressure and other heart disease risk factors. Some of the ways people cope with stress — drinking alcohol, using different substances, smoking, or overeating — are not healthy ways to manage stress.

Managing stress and coping with problems can improve your mental and physical health.

Consider healthy stress-reducing activities such as: · Talking to a professional counselor · Participating in a stress management program · Practicing meditation · Being physically active · Trying relaxation techniques · Talking with friends, family, and community or religious support systems Holistic Approach Addressing the stressors faced by new immigrants requires a holistic approach that includes providing social support, access to resources and services, opportunities for cultural integration, and policies that promote inclusivity and equality. Community organizations, support groups, mental health services, and advocacy efforts play crucial roles in supporting the well-being of new immigrants.l

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17

LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS

Four Tips for Building a Healthy Relationship Healthy relationships involve honesty, trust, respect and open communication between partners and they take effort and compromise from both people.

BY MARY CAMPBELL

I

s your romantic relationship new, and you want to make it strong, or is it on the rocks and looking to repair and save it? Whichever one it is, these tips can help you feel loved and connected to your partner. Building a healthy relationship requires both partners' effort, understanding, and commitment. Here are four tips to help cultivate a solid and fulfilling connection: 1. Communication: Effective communication is essential for any healthy relationship. This means openly expressing thoughts, feelings, and concerns while listening to your partner. Be honest, respectful, and empathetic in your communication. Address conflicts calmly and constructively, focusing on finding solutions rather than placing blame.

Regularly check in with each other to ensure both partners feel heard and understood.

2.Trust and Honesty: Trust forms the foundation of a healthy relationship.

Building and maintaining trust involves being reliable, consistent, and transpar-

ent with your partner. Avoid keeping secrets or hiding important information, as this can erode trust over time. Foster an environment where both partners feel safe to be themselves without fear of judgment or betrayal. Trust is nurtured through honesty, integrity, and consistent behavior.

ner's efforts, accomplishments, and qualities. Be supportive during both the good and challenging times, offering encouragement, comfort, and assistance when needed. Respectful communication, compromise, and mutual understanding are critical components of a supportive relationship.

3. Respect and Support: Respect each other's individuality, boundaries, and autonomy. Celebrate differences and encourage personal growth and development. Show appreciation for your part-

4. Quality Time and Connection: Make time for each other and prioritize spending quality time together. Engage in activities that you both enjoy and that strengthen your bond. Share experiences,

interests, and goals to foster emotional intimacy and connection. Create rituals or traditions that hold meaning for both partners, such as date nights, shared hobbies, or meaningful conversations.

Regularly expressing love, affection, and appreciation helps keep the connection alive and thriving.

Conclusion By prioritizing communication, trust, respect, and quality time, you can build a healthy, fulfilling relationship that stands the test of time. Remember that relationships require ongoing effort and attention, so continue to nurture and invest in your partnership to keep it strong and vibrant.l

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TAX MATTERS

18

Most Common Tax Errors filed, don’t panic. You can amend your tax return, typically by filing IRS Form 1040X. Note changes in deductions, credit or income on the form and resubmit as soon as possible. It’s not necessary to complete an entirely new tax return.

The 1040X form only requires updates to the numbers that have changed.

BY TAXGUY.NYC

T

he risk with even simple mistakes is an extended delay in resolving your tax burden while corrections are made. In the worst-case scenario, you may even be subject to an audit. So take the time to look for these common errors, even if you have hired a professional to prepare your taxes.

The Fine Print Most of the mistakes in tax forms are actually basic errors. Someone might be a digit off when entering a Social Security number or misspell a name. Be on the lookout for these kinds of typographical errors. A helpful way to make sure they’re right to read the information out loud. Your ear will hear the mistake.

Contact the Social Security Administration if a name has changed since the last filing, usually following a marriage or divorce. Submitting the new name may be technically correct, but it won’t match the information on file.

E-Filing Filing electronically streamlines the process. It’s faster than standard mail and professional service providers can trans-

mit your information securely over the internet. Still, the tendency may be to rush through the process since that’s how we typically lead our online lives, anyway. Many of these programs include accuracy-check features that will alert taxpayers to potential errors. Pay close attention to any warnings and remember to check (and double-check) your information, just as you would with an oldfashioned paper return.

What to Do If you discover an error after you’ve

Payments Specific information is required with payment, and confusion follows if any of it is wrong.

Paying electronically when filing ensures that your information matches and that the bill ends up in the correct hands. If you choose to pay by money order or check, however, remember to make funds payable to the U.S. Treasury, and note the tax form and tax year of payment.

Include your name, address and Social Security number, along with a daytime phone number. If any of these things is missing, or incorrect, your payment may be delayed or lost.

Guidance Questions? ASK THE LAWYER. Call 855-768-8845 or schedule an appointment at www.askthelawyer.usl

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The Immigrant’s Journal - Feb 2024 PAGE 20

The lawyer you hire, does make a difference!

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