In 2022, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis ordered a series of flights funded with taxpayer dollars, aimed at transporting migrants to Martha’s Vineyard, an affluent vacation destination.
In the aftermath, the federal government conducted a federal investigation into DeSantis’ actions, finding that the stunt could be interpreted as a crime as these migrants were exploited into boarding the charter flights under false pretenses.
Recently the US government granted eight of the 49 involved migrants special legal protection under U-visas. These visas will protect the migrants from future deportation (granted they do not violate any federal laws) and grant them authorization to legally work in the U.S. While the fate of the other 41 individuals is in limbo, it is expected that these protections will extend to them shortly.
The federal government only issues 10,000 U-visas per year, with many recipients using these visas as a pathway to obtain permanent lawful status.
Contact a Los Angeles Immigration Attorney Today
Unfortunately, DeSantis’ acts were one of many polarizing actions against migrants in recent years. Victims of exploitation and any other unexpectable acts of discrimination should immediately contact an immigration attorney to understand their legal rights to pursue action, and in conjunction receive a U-visa or other protective status.
Reeves Immigration Law Group has protected immigrant communities and beyond for over four decades, successfully advocating for their rights. Our team of Los Angeles and San Francisco immigration attorneys are here to assist in virtually any immigration need from deportation defense to obtaining a green card.
If you have felt violated or exploited by authoritative figures, we encourage you to contact our offices today to connect with a California immigration lawyer.
