New Protections for Migrant Workers who Report Worksite Violations.

The Department of Homeland Security announced process changes that will streamline their existing authority to grant migrant workers protection from immigration-related retaliation.

It’s a process called deferred action. A noncitizen who is granted deferred action is considered lawfully present in the United States for a certain purpose while the deferred action is in effect. A noncitizen granted deferred action may apply for and obtain employment authorization for the period of deferred action.

“This has been a long-awaited important development from DHS.” Said Matt Capece-Representative of the General President of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America. He goes on to say, “During the transition period to the Biden administration, the UBC along with others requested parole and deferred action in circumstances where undocumented immigrants were complainants in employment-law violation cases. Previously undocumented immigrant workers had to rely on getting a T or U visa to protect them from deportation, but T & U visas do not always apply to employment-law violations. DHS has now instituted a program where workers can also apply for parole or deferred action.  Such also has the possibility of leading to receiving work authorization. Applying for such relief will require the cooperation of the investigating agency.”

Friday's announcement sets up guidelines on the agency's website so applicants know what documentation they need and how to apply.