MA Passes Nguyen Bill Shielding Violence Victims From Deportation

Andover MA

19 July, 2021

12:48 PM

Description

ANDOVER, MA — A bill to protect victims of violent crime and human trafficking from deportation filed by state Rep. Tram Nguyen, D-Andover, was signed into law Friday, Nguyen's office said. The bill was filed with Rep. Patricia Haddad, D-Somerset and included in the Fiscal Year 2022 budget, which Gov. Charlie Baker signed Friday. The bill "provides clear and consistent language for law enforcement to certify immigrant victims of domestic violence, stalking, child abuse, and sex trafficking, who have helped in the prosecution of their abusers," according to a news release. "With that certification, these victims can then apply for a U- or T-visa, which would allow them to testify without fear of deportation." Many individual agencies have processes in place for those certifications, but there is no consistent rule statewide. "As an attorney, I worked with many survivors of domestic violence, as well as victims of crimes, including stalking and abuse," Nugyen said in a statement. "Escaping this kind of violence is extremely difficult; it's even more so when the victim is an immigrant reliant on their abuser for their legal status in this country. "This is how criminals get away with keeping their victims silent and compliant: by threatening them with deportation if they speak out, or even try to protect themselves. This law will encourage victims and witnesses to report crimes and cooperate with law enforcement, who can then better investigate crimes. It will improve public safety." The law does not mandate that police approve applications for immigrant certification, but it requires a decision with 90 days of the application and "creates a uniform oversight process." "With the increase in hate and violence in recent years, this law is more timely and important than ever," Nguyen said. "It will provide reassurance to immigrant victims who are seeking to report crimes and hold perpetrators accountable." Nguyen represents the 18th Essex District, which includes parts of Andover, Boxford, North Andover and Tewksbury. Christopher Huffaker can be reached at 412-265-8353 or [email protected].