The Trump administration has implemented new policies impacting the immigrant community in the United States. From the reactivation of the 287(g) Program, allowing local police to act as immigration agents, to the creation of a controversial mandatory registration for undocumented immigrants, these measures have raised concerns among many families.
Below, we analyze the most important news of the week and what steps immigrants can take to protect themselves.
1. Reactivation of the 287(g) Program: More Power for the Police
Trump has reinstated the 287(g) Program, allowing local and state police in Florida, Texas, Idaho, Kansas, and Oklahoma to stop and question people about their immigration status in public and potentially arrest them for deportation proceedings.
This program was suspended in 2012 due to abuses, including racial profiling and illegal detentions of immigrants with legal status. Now, its return is raising concerns, as immigrants could be detained and handed over to ICE without a valid reason.
What to do if the police stop you?
- Do not reveal your immigration status or answer questions without a lawyer.
- Ask if you are free to leave before responding.
- Do not sign any documents without legal advice.
If you live in one of these states, it is important to stay informed and know your rights.
2. New Mandatory Registration for Undocumented Immigrants
The Trump administration has proposed a mandatory registration system for immigrants without legal status. This system would require all individuals over the age of 13 who have been in the United States for more than 30 days to register their fingerprints and personal information with the government.
Why is this concerning?
- It could be used to track and deport immigrants.
- It includes criminal penalties and fines for those who do not register.
- It has not yet been implemented but has already generated fear in the community.
Beware of scams. If someone offers to register you for a fee, it may be a fraud. Do not take any action without consulting an attorney.
3. Golden Card: Residency for $5 Million
President Trump has proposed a new residency visa called the Golden Card, which would cost $5 million and provide a pathway to citizenship without requiring job creation in the U.S.
This program would replace the EB-5 investor visa. However, it does not benefit working immigrants or families—only millionaires who can afford to buy residency.
How does this affect immigrants with family or humanitarian cases?
- It could reduce resources for those seeking a Green Card through marriage or asylum.
- It shifts immigration priorities toward wealthy individuals, leaving out families with legitimate needs.
It is important to monitor this proposal closely, as it could change the U.S. immigration system.
4. Immigration Raids and Labor Exploitation in Puerto Rico
In an operation in San Juan, Puerto Rico, ICE investigated the hiring of undocumented immigrants, mainly from the Dominican Republic and Haiti. While no arrests were made, authorities confiscated documents and personal data.
How can undocumented workers protect themselves?
- Know your labor rights and do not accept abusive conditions.
- Check if you qualify for a T Visa (for victims of labor exploitation).
- Do not sign documents under pressure.
Have you been a victim of labor abuse?
If an employer paid you less than the fair wage, denied you breaks, forced you to work overtime without pay, or threatened you because of your immigration status, you might qualify for an immigration benefit.
Consult an Attorney and Protect Your Future
With these changes underway, the best way to protect yourself is to stay informed and seek legal assistance. If you think you may qualify for an immigration remedy, don’t wait.
Call 877-619-8472 and schedule a consultation with an immigration attorney. You can do it by phone or video call from anywhere in the U.S.