Immigration Law Updates 2024: What North Carolinaa](/blog/workers-compensation-rights-nc)a](/blog/traffic-violations-defense-nc) and Florida Residents Need to Know Now

The landscape of immigration law is shifting rapidly in 2024, with important changes coming from federal agencies, state governments, and the courts. For immigrants and families in North Carolina and Florida, these developments carry real consequences—affecting everything from green card eligibility and travel to deportation risk and employment.

Keep reading to understand the latest immigration law news, its specific impacts on NC and FL residents, and practical steps you must take now to protect yourself and your loved ones.

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Quick Summary of the Latest Immigration News (2024)

• The Department of Homeland Security has reinstated strict “public charge” rules, affecting immigrants applying for permanent residence who use public benefits.
• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) plans major fee increases on immigration applications, starting mid-2024, making naturalization and family petitions more expensive.
• Temporary Protected Status (TPS) has been extended for many vulnerable groups, including Venezuelans, Haitians, and Ukrainians residing in NC and FL.
• The fate of DACA remains uncertain, with recent court rulings restricting the program and a Supreme Court hearing expected soon.
• Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has updated enforcement priorities, focusing more on national security threats and serious criminals.
• Florida continues to enforce strict state laws requiring full cooperation with federal immigration agents, while North Carolina shows more variation at the local level, with some sanctuary policies.

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Legal Implications for North Carolina and Florida Residents

North Carolina and Florida are home to large immigrant communities relying on protections like DACA and TPS or family-based immigration. Here’s what the latest legal shifts mean for you:

Public Charge Rule Restored — Be Careful Using Public Benefits

The Biden Administration’s rollback of the harsh Trump-era public charge rule was reversed in January 2024. Now, use of programs like Medicaid, SNAP, and housing assistance can count against applicants seeking green cards. This is particularly important for mixed-status families in both NC and FL, where limited safety net access can create difficult choices.

USCIS Fee Hikes Make Immigration More Costly

The fee increases proposed by USCIS could raise naturalization costs by over 40% and family-based petitions by up to 50%. For many NC and FL residents already struggling financially, this adds pressure to file timely applications for status renewals or adjust status.

TPS Extensions Offer Temporary Relief — Not a Green Card

With extensions for Venezuelans, Haitians, and Ukrainians, affected immigrants have renewed temporary legal status. This means continued protection from deportation and work authorization but no direct path to permanent residence.

DACA Under Threat — Act Quickly

Recent rulings like United States v. Texas have limited DACA protections, creating precarious situations for Dreamers in NC and FL. The Supreme Court’s imminent decision could further alter eligibility. Renewal filings must be timely to avoid gaps in protection.

ICE Enforcement and State Policies Differ Sharply Between NC and FL

Florida’s HB 7055 law strictly mandates local cooperation with federal agents, increasing ICE activity. North Carolina’s localities vary: some fully cooperate, others adopt “sanctuary” policies limiting ICE involvement. This discrepancy impacts detention risks and legal strategies.

Employment and Education Impacts

Both states require E-Verify for many employers, making it harder for undocumented residents to find work. Florida does not issue driver’s licenses to undocumented individuals, while North Carolina offers restricted driving privileges in some cases—affecting day-to-day mobility.

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What This Means for Our Clients

If you or your family live in North Carolina or Florida, here is what you must keep in mind:

• Avoid Using Public Benefits Without Legal Advice: Public charge rules could jeopardize your green card application.
• Prepare for Increased Costs: Budget for the new USCIS fees if you plan to file or renew immigration applications.
• Know Your Status and Renew on Time: TPS and DACA protections are temporary—missed renewals could mean losing work authorization and deportation risk.
• Be Aware of State Specific Risks: In Florida, you are at higher risk for local law enforcement cooperation with ICE, while in North Carolina, evaluate your county’s stance to anticipate enforcement changes.
• Employment Verification Is Strict: Employers increasingly use E-Verify; providing false documents can carry severe penalties.
• Understand Your Rights During ICE Encounters: Always ask for a warrant, decline searches without a judge’s order, and seek legal counsel immediately.

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Practical Steps to Take If You Are Affected

1. Contact An Experienced Immigration Attorney Immediately. The laws are complex and changing. Early advice can prevent mistakes that lead to denial or removal.
2. Gather and Safeguard All USCIS Documents. Keep copies of notices, receipts, and approvals handy.
3. Do Not Delay Renewal Applications. File TPS, DACA, and other status updates well before deadlines.
4. Avoid Public Benefits Without Legal Guidance. Some benefits are safe to use; others can cause denials.
5. Know Your Rights If ICE Approaches You. Politely ask for legal documentation — do not consent to searches without a warrant.
6. For Employers in NC and FL: Understand your legal obligations regarding employment verification and avoid hiring unauthorized workers to stay in compliance.

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How Vasquez Law Firm Can Help You Today

At Vasquez Law Firm, we are closely monitoring these important immigration developments to provide you with up-to-date, strategic legal counsel. Whether you live in North Carolina or Florida, our experienced attorneys can:

• Help you understand how federal and state changes affect your immigration status.
• Guide you through applying for or renewing DACA, TPS, green cards, and naturalization.
• Provide defense against deportation and removal proceedings.
• Assist employers with compliance on E-Verify and workforce screening.
• Offer personalized assessments to minimize risk and maximize immigration benefits.

Don’t wait until a renewal deadline or ICE encounter to get legal help. Call us now at (844) 967-3536 for a consultation.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the public charge rule, and how does it affect me?
The public charge rule is a test used to determine if you are likely to become dependent on government assistance. Use of some benefits may jeopardize eligibility for green cards. Consult an attorney before using means-tested benefits.

2. Are fee increases for immigration applications already in effect?
USCIS proposed fee increases are set to take effect around mid-2024. It is advisable to plan ahead financially before filing new applications or renewals.

3. What does TPS extension mean for me if I’m Venezuelan or Haitian in NC or FL?
TPS allows you to stay and work legally in the U.S. temporarily, but it does not lead directly to permanent residency or citizenship.

4. How can I protect myself from ICE enforcement in Florida?
Florida enforces laws requiring local police cooperation with ICE. Knowing your rights, working with an attorney, and ensuring your immigration paperwork is up-to-date are critical defenses.

5. Can I renew my DACA status if the Supreme Court rules against the program?
Renewals must be timely to maintain protection while legal challenges continue. Contact an attorney as soon as possible to discuss your options.

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Time is of the essence. If you or a loved one needs help navigating these new immigration rules in North Carolina or Florida, call Vasquez Law Firm today at (844) 967-3536. Don’t risk costly mistakes in your immigration future.

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Disclaimer: This blog post offers general legal information and is not intended to provide specific legal advice. For individual legal questions or representation, please contact Vasquez Law Firm directly.

Related Legal Resources

Learn more about your legal rights and options:

• Traffic Violations: Fight Your Ticket and Protect Your License Don't just pay that ticket. Learn how to fight traffic violations and protect your driving record.

• Workers' Compensation Rights in North Carolina Understanding your rights and benefits under North Carolina workers' compensation law.

• Criminal Defense: Protecting Your Rights in North Carolina Know your rights when facing criminal charges and how to build a strong defense.

Need Legal Help?

Contact Vasquez Law Firm for a free consultation. Our experienced attorneys are here to help.

Call (844) 967-3536