Many people in Tennessee have been concerned about changes to U.S. immigration law made by the Trump administration, especially people who are looking to protect their status in the country. People may feel uncertain about the future, especially given the frequent changes and new executive rules that alter the way that visa or green card applications are handled. On Jan. 23, 2020, the administration issued another rule changing the way that visa applicants are treated, this time addressing pregnant women. According to reports, consular officials were directed to deny visas to pregnant women unless they can show a consular officer that they are not coming to the U.S. for the birth or have a legitimate medical need.
Mexico policy raises concerns for asylum seekers
The "Return to Mexico" initiative of the Trump administration has caused significant worry among friends and family of asylum seekers in Tennessee and nationwide. People who arrive at the southern border to make a claim for asylum were, in the past, often admitted to the United States. They may have been detained or released to the community, especially if they had family members or loved ones willing to support them and vouch for them. Under the new policy, however, over 55,000 asylum seekers have been forced to stay in Mexican, even after they present themselves to a U.S. border official and make a claim for asylum.
Failure to pay child support could impact immigration status
When Tennessee residents think about the requirements for an individual to become a naturalized U.S. citizen, child support payments may be the last thing on their mind. However, when a person applies to become a naturalized U.S. citizen, one of the questions they are asked is if they have ever failed to pay child support or alimony.
