Dear Readers:

There seems to be no slow down in state lawmaking in the immigration area and the directions different states are going show just how divided the country is on this issue. Alabama’s toughest in the nation immigration law was largely upheld last week by a federal district judge to the surprise of many observers. Almost immediately after the ruling, the Justice Department sought injunctive relief from a federal circuit court of appeals. The first person arrested under the Alabama law also was announced this week. And to the embarrassment of the backers of the law, it turned out the individual was a legal immigrant.

California also made news this week with passage of the state’s own version of the DREAM Act. The bill in California will allow illegally present immigrant youth the opportunity to receive public funds to help attend college. The law requires that these individuals wait until US citizens and lawful permanent residents first have a chance to get financial assistance. Similar laws have passed in other states including Texas, something that opponents of Rick Perry’s presidential bid are quick to note.  

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In firm news, I will be speaking this week to the Massachusetts Medical Society along with my friend Roy Watson on physician immigration. If you are a physician interested in attending, please email me at gsiskind@visalaw.com and I’ll get you in touch with the organizers of the program.

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Readers are reminded that they are welcome to contact my law office if they would like to schedule a telephone or in person consultation with me or one of my colleagues. If you are interested, please call my office at 901-682-6455.

Regards,

Greg Siskind