The recent election of Donald J. Trump as President of the United States, and the hotly contested political debate about immigration, have led to uncertainty about the future of immigration. Today's blog post will summarize President Trump's January 25, 2017 Executive Order on Interior Immigration Enforcement.

Priorities For Removal

President Trump's Executive Order clearly sets forth the priorities of the Trump Administration as it relates to immigration enforcement, in order of priority for removal as follows: (1) aliens convicted of any criminal offense; (2) aliens charged with a crime, but not convicted; (3) aliens who have committed a crime but have not been charged; (4) aliens who have committed immigration fraud or misrepresentation; (5) aliens who have abused public welfare benefits; (6) aliens who have been ordered removed; and (7) aliens who pose a risk to public safety or national security.

Sanctuary Cities

The Trump Administration will vigorously oppose cities and states that further so-called "sanctuary city" policies, by withdrawing and withholding federal funding for any state or local jurisdiction that does not fully comply with existing immigration laws.

Publication of Information

The Trump Administration has directed that information regarding public safety threats associated with sanctuary jurisdictions and a weekly list of criminal aliens, as well as any jurisdiction that fails to honor immigration detainers with regard to such criminal aliens.

Support for Victims of Crimes Committed by Criminal Aliens

Resources will be devoted to programs designed to support and assist any victim of crimes committed by foreign nationals. These resources will be available also to the families of victims.
As we march forward into the year 2017, with a new Administration and new policies, we are bound to face a series of changes, benefits and challenges. As changes occur, the lives of many immigrants and non-immigrants will be impacted, for better or worse. Christiansen Law Firm will remain at the forefront of these changes, and will be able to advise you on the impact of these changes in your unique circumstances. For additional information about how Christiansen Law Firm can assist you, please contact our offices in Houston or San Antonio.