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Tag: EAD
Immigration
5 min read

NC Immigration Impact: SEED Program Honors More Than

New NC law or policy affecting immigrants: <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">SEED Program Honors More Than 70 Students at Recognition Ceremony</span> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"><span>lsaito</span></span> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"><time datetime="2025-07-24T13:42:04-04:00" title="Thursday, July 24, 2025 - 13:42" class="datetime">Thu, 07/24/2025 - 13:42</time> </span> <div class="field field--name-field-city-location field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Raleigh, NC</div> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p style="margin:0in;">Today, more than 70 high school students from southeastern North Carolina were recognized for successfully completing the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fclick-1346310.icptrack.com%2Ficp%2Frelay.php%3Fr%3D42086335%26msgid%3D524878%26act%3D969C%26c%3D1346310%26pid%3D1142214%26destination%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fncbce.org%252Fseed%252F%26cf%3D13425%26v%3D0a75c864d7d0f3e91e438d436272eb7edbbdff51f1aef6e0ddc61bd2e19b6901&data=05%7C02%7Clogan.saito%40nc.gov%7Cc525cf51e788474fa26a08ddcad91fbe%7C7a7681dcb9d0449a85c3ecc26cd7ed19%7C0%7C0%7C638889756068312911%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=yoExMLkd1N%2FGoncsL%2BpbxsL9jzHo%2BC88TMuG%2FKokG98%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank">SEED (Southeastern Education and Economic Development)</a> Program, a unique career exploration initiative focused on advanced manufacturing and agriculture.<o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-top:12.0pt;">“Every North Carolinian deserves a chance at success whether or not they want to pursue a traditional four-year degree,” <strong>said Governor Josh Stein. </strong>“Programs like SEED prepare students for careers in high-demand fields, giving them hands-on experience and industry-valued credentials. Congratulations to these students for their hard work in pursuit of a brighter future.”<o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-top:12.0pt;">The recognition ceremony, held at the University of Mount Olive, brought together students, educators, industry partners, and community leaders to celebrate the achievements of participants from five area community colleges: Wilson Community College, Lenoir Community College, Wayne Community College, Sampson Community College, and James Sprunt Community College.<o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-top:12.0pt;">The SEED Program is a registered pre-apprenticeship with ApprenticeshipNC, offering students a structured pathway into high-demand careers through hands-on learning, industry credentials, and exposure to real-world job environments. As a pre-apprenticeship, the program sets students up for success in future apprenticeship opportunities and long-term employment.<o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-top:12.0pt;">Made possible through generous funding from Smithfield Foods, SEED was created in partnership with the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fclick-1346310.icptrack.com%2Ficp%2Frelay.php%3Fr%3D42086335%26msgid%3D524878%26act%3D969C%26c%3D1346310%26pid%3D1142214%26destination%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fncbce.org%252Fabout%252F%26cf%3D13425%26v%3D1bdca023167cd4102e87d5282b26aa4234501ca88300bb54355b03f0834a548e&data=05%7C02%7Clogan.saito%40nc.gov%7Cc525cf51e788474fa26a08ddcad91fbe%7C7a7681dcb9d0449a85c3ecc26cd7ed19%7C0%7C0%7C638889756068327527%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=bRS%2FGdgHXoqx8b9wypqJlAU%2FOB3G%2BoX%2FPQhyuAe9m3g%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank">North Carolina Business Committee for Education (NCBCE)</a>, local school districts, community colleges, and regional employers. The program provides high school students with hands-on exposure to high-growth careers and helps build a sustainable talent pipeline for North Carolina’s workforce.<o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-top:12.0pt;">“Smithfield is committed to investing in the future of agriculture and manufacturing by equipping young people with the skills and experiences they need to thrive,” <strong>said Jay Bennett, chief human resources officer for Smithfield Foods.</strong> “Through our support of the SEED program, we’re building meaningful partnerships with communities and helping students discover rewarding career paths that strengthen our industry and workforce.”<o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-top:12.0pt;">“At Wayne Community College, we believe in the power of partnerships to transform lives and communities,” <strong>said Dr. Patricia Pfeiffer, President, Wayne Community College.</strong> “The SEED Program is a shining example of how education, industry, and public support can come together to create meaningful opportunities for our students. By giving them hands-on experiences and a clear path to future careers, we are not only preparing these young people for success but also strengthening the workforce and economy of eastern North Carolina.”<o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-top:12.0pt;">Throughout the summer, students engaged in immersive experiences, including classroom instruction, industry tours, and technical simulations. The Advanced Manufacturing Academy was hosted by Wilson, Lenoir, and Wayne community colleges, while Sampson, James Sprunt, and Wayne community colleges led the Agricultural Academy.<o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-top:12.0pt;">“Smithfield’s support helped bring this vision to life, giving students real-world experience in careers with long-term potential – right here in their home communities,” <strong>said Julia Wright, Board Chair of NCBCE. </strong>“We’re proud to recognize their dedication and growth through this program.”<o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-top:12.0pt;">Each student received a certificate of completion during the ceremony, recognizing their commitment to personal growth, technical skill development, and work toward building a brighter future for themselves and their communities.<o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-top:12.0pt;">SEED also provides financial support, covering stipends, supplies, and transportation to ensure students have the resources they need to succeed. In addition to the summer program, SEED supports career awareness for middle school students and offers professional development for teachers and counselors.<o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-top:12.0pt;">The SEED program continues to grow, with plans to expand into additional counties and career pathways in the coming years.<o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-top:12.0pt;">For more information on the SEED program, visit <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fclick-1346310.icptrack.com%2Ficp%2Frelay.php%3Fr%3D42086335%26msgid%3D524878%26act%3D969C%26c%3D1346310%26pid%3D1142214%26destination%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252Fncbce.org%252Fseed%26cf%3D13425%26v%3Dfa052508dcf1f1b12f42be0c2c6d638f5f55c38ccc794f7df57ac7570faa22b2&data=05%7C02%7Clogan.saito%40nc.gov%7Cc525cf51e788474fa26a08ddcad91fbe%7C7a7681dcb9d0449a85c3ecc26cd7ed19%7C0%7C0%7C638889756068341582%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=iphXclGLVXgbRIhS6b1S8IocjgRgk0K7vrPG5JCCNBU%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank">ncbce.org/seed</a>. <o:p></o:p></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-release-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item">Jul 24, 2025</div>

Vasquez Law Firm Legal Team
ICETPSEAD
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Immigration
5 min read

Immigration Update: Child Exploitation Case

Important immigration law development: SASHA MAY, formerly known as Owen May, 24, of Pelham, New York, waived her right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to a child exploitation offense.

Vasquez Law Firm Legal Team
EADnationwide
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Immigration
5 min read

Immigration Update: Federal Criminal Conviction

Important immigration law development: A Texas man pleaded guilty to filing false tax returns with the IRS before U.S. Magistrate Judge Susan Hightower for the Western District of Texas. The plea must be accepted by a U.S. district court judge.

Vasquez Law Firm Legal Team
EADcourtnationwide
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Immigration
5 min read

Immigration Update: Federal Criminal Conviction

Important immigration law development: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that, on July 17, 2025, JOSEPH HAROLD WEST, JR. (“WEST”), a resident of St. Tammany Parish, was sentenced by United States District Judge Barry W. Ashe to 46 months of imprisonment, after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371. Following imprisonment, WEST will be placed on supervised release for 3 years. WEST was also ordered to pay $446,302.23 in restitution to his victims and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

Vasquez Law Firm Legal Team
EADNorth Carolinanationwide
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Immigration
5 min read

Immigration Update: Vietnamese Investors Seek

Important immigration law development: Fourteen Vietnamese nationals have sued a Virginia law firm and its head attorney, seeking to cancel their $500,000 investments in a hotel redevelopment project after the federal government said it was denying their petitions for conditional permanent residency.

Vasquez Law Firm Legal Team
EADlawNorth Carolina
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Immigration
5 min read

NC Immigration Impact: Governor Tours Facility

New NC law or policy affecting immigrants: <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">Governor Stein Tours Coca-Cola Consolidated Facility, Meets with Apprenticeship Students </span> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"><span>lsaito</span></span> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"><time datetime="2025-07-23T17:03:34-04:00" title="Wednesday, July 23, 2025 - 17:03" class="datetime">Wed, 07/23/2025 - 17:03</time> </span> <div class="field field--name-field-city-location field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Raleigh, NC</div> <div class="field field--name-field-main-image field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="https://files.nc.gov/nc-governor/styles/event_image/public/images/2025-07/DSC01596.jpg?VersionId=zL1qHus2X.xJ9ciBa7RZNz8xpqRQ9Jr3&itok=puRCG50Q" width="1400" height="934" alt="" class="image-style-event-image" /> </div> </div> </div> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Today, Governor Josh Stein toured the Coca-Cola Consolidated facility in Charlotte and met with Coca-Cola Consolidated leadership and students in its apprenticeship program. Through a partnership with Central Piedmont Community College, the nation’s largest Coca-Cola bottler is preparing students for high-demand positions in manufacturing, equipment repair, and logistics. </p><div class="align-center"> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="https://files.nc.gov/nc-governor/styles/inline_large/public/images/2025-07/DSC01807.jpg?VersionId=yCv1C96R3riTul6L4LJJjWudCqQz4QAA&itok=KbXMFNeT" width="958" height="640" alt class="image-style-inline-large"> </div> </div> <p style="margin:0in;">“Every North Carolinian deserves a shot at a brighter future and that shouldn’t necessarily require a traditional four-year degree,” <strong>said Governor Josh Stein.</strong> “Opportunities like Coca-Cola Consolidated's apprenticeship program allow students to pursue their interests in high-demand fields and set them up for success in the job market.”<o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-top:12.0pt;">This month, CNBC named North Carolina as the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgovernor.nc.gov%2Fnews%2Fpress-releases%2F2025%2F07%2F10%2Fcnbc-names-north-carolina-1-state-business&data=05%7C02%7Clogan.saito%40nc.gov%7C118011cdefcc4966f3c108ddca2337d6%7C7a7681dcb9d0449a85c3ecc26cd7ed19%7C0%7C0%7C638888974790185020%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=xIukWhCr33%2BJ1x3tdIy0s%2BYC9zWvnli9evJ2n7hfJS8%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank">top state for business</a>, citing the state’s workforce as one of its biggest strengths. Established in Executive Order No. 11 on March 25, 2025, the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.commerce.nc.gov%2Fabout-us%2Fboards-commissions%2Fncworks-commission%2Fgovernors-council-workforce-and-apprenticeships&data=05%7C02%7Clogan.saito%40nc.gov%7C118011cdefcc4966f3c108ddca2337d6%7C7a7681dcb9d0449a85c3ecc26cd7ed19%7C0%7C0%7C638888974790198541%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=QY86FksuDmwCiMbxsj%2BQVAbxq7XXhwD6ix3F%2BMq8pU8%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank">Governor’s Council on Workforce and Apprenticeships</a> recently shared its <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.commerce.nc.gov%2Freports-policymakers%2Fother-reports%2Freport-workforce-development-goals-governors-council-workforce-and-apprenticeships-june-2025%2Fopen&data=05%7C02%7Clogan.saito%40nc.gov%7C118011cdefcc4966f3c108ddca2337d6%7C7a7681dcb9d0449a85c3ecc26cd7ed19%7C0%7C0%7C638888974790211733%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=pU9bgiVqYa1zckZwIIuO%2F7qbSypHOWimPRVWzCuQzsU%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank">first report</a>, outlining goals to expand access to good jobs, including by investing in statewide apprenticeship and technical education programs, engaging with employers to identify and address industry needs, and ensuring that every student in North Carolina has a post-secondary pathway to employment, education, or enlistment in the military. On July 1, 2025, Stein also <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wral.com%2Fstory%2Feasier-faster-and-better-stein-signs-law-aimed-at-improving-nc-government-hiring-process%2F22071639%2F&data=05%7C02%7Clogan.saito%40nc.gov%7C118011cdefcc4966f3c108ddca2337d6%7C7a7681dcb9d0449a85c3ecc26cd7ed19%7C0%7C0%7C638888974790224854%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=HSncFeCI1jraeY%2B6rHpJrH1hhZeIf4ZzbrJaTu9hcP4%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank">signed</a> into law Senate Bill 124, which reduces the number of state government jobs that require a four-year college degree.<o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-top:12.0pt;">Governor Stein believes every North Carolinian should have the opportunity to achieve success – no matter their background. Since taking office, Governor Stein has announced more than more than $18 billion in investments and more than 24,000 new jobs coming to North Carolina. <o:p></o:p></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-release-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item">Jul 23, 2025</div> <ul class="related-topics"> <li class="field__item"><div id="taxonomy-term-275" class="taxonomy-term vocabulary-press-release-terms"> <a href="/press-release-terms/workforce-development"> <div class="field field--name-name field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Workforce Development</div> </a> <div class="content"> </div> </div> </li> </ul>

Vasquez Law Firm Legal Team
ICETPSEAD
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Immigration
5 min read

NC Immigration Impact: Governor Update

New NC law or policy affecting immigrants: <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">Governor Stein Announces More Than $2 Million for Great Trails State Program Projects in Eastern North Carolina</span> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"><span>lsaito</span></span> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"><time datetime="2025-07-23T14:02:57-04:00" title="Wednesday, July 23, 2025 - 14:02" class="datetime">Wed, 07/23/2025 - 14:02</time> </span> <div class="field field--name-field-city-location field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Raleigh, NC</div> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);color:rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Roboto, sans-serif;font-size:16px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;margin-bottom:0px;margin-top:0px;orphans:2;text-align:left;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Today, Governor Josh Stein announced that the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources has awarded more than $2.6 million to trail development and restoration projects in eastern North Carolina. These funds were authorized by the General Assembly as part of the Great Trails State Program. </p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);color:rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Roboto, sans-serif;font-size:16px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;margin-bottom:0px;margin-top:16px;orphans:2;text-align:left;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">“Eastern North Carolina and the Carolina coast are some of our state’s greatest assets – and a great draw to bring people to enjoy all that our beautiful state has to offer,” <strong>said Governor Josh Stein.</strong> “This funding will help eastern North Carolina increase tourism, improve quality of life, and introduce more people to our state’s natural beauty.” </p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);color:rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Roboto, sans-serif;font-size:16px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;margin-bottom:0px;margin-top:16px;orphans:2;text-align:left;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">“Trails bring incredible benefits to both urban and rural communities, boosting tourism and economic development,” <strong>said Pamela B. Cashwell, secretary of the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. </strong>“This generous funding, made possible by the N.C. General Assembly, will help transform the state trails system in the Great Trails State.”</p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);color:rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Roboto, sans-serif;font-size:16px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;margin-bottom:0px;margin-top:16px;orphans:2;text-align:left;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">The Great Trails State Program was established through the General Assembly in 2023, representing a historic investment of $25 million in North Carolina trails. The program offers matching grants to North Carolina local governments, public authorities, NC Regional Councils of Government, and nonprofit organizations.</p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);color:rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Roboto, sans-serif;font-size:16px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;margin-bottom:0px;margin-top:16px;orphans:2;text-align:left;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">These awards include projects at more than 70 local trails throughout the state, helping to solidify North Carolina as the Great Trails State. In eastern North Carolina, 10 local trail projects will benefit from $2,634,785 in Great Trails State Program funding, including designing the South Croatan Highway, reconstruction at Greenfield Park in Wilmington, and enhancing and expanding trails and boardwalks throughout the region. Last week, Governor Stein <a style="color:rgb(5, 99, 193);font-size:14px;text-decoration:underline;" href="https://governor.nc.gov/news/press-releases/2025/07/17/governor-stein-announces-more-11-million-great-trails-state-program-projects-western-north-carolina" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">announced</a> $11 million in funding to create and restore western North Carolina trails.</p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);color:rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Roboto, sans-serif;font-size:16px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;margin-bottom:0px;margin-top:16px;orphans:2;text-align:left;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">“The 125 member organizations of the Great Trails State Coalition thank the North Carolina General Assembly for creating and funding the Great Trails State Program,”<strong> said Palmer McIntyre, director of the N.C. Great Trails State Coalition. </strong>“This visionary investment in all types of trails across the state will deliver transformative economic, health, and quality-of-life benefits for communities of all sizes. The Coalition will continue to work alongside N.C. State Parks to support this program.” </p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);color:rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Roboto, sans-serif;font-size:16px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;margin-bottom:0px;margin-top:16px;orphans:2;text-align:left;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Local communities applied for grants to fund new trail development or to extend existing trails. This includes paved trails or greenways, natural surface trails, biking trails, equestrian trails, and any other type of trail the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources recognizes. Projects could include planning and feasibility studies, design and engineering, acquisition of lands for trail development, trail construction, and maintenance of existing trails. Applicants were required to provide matching funds, based on their county tier designation. The N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation received 89 applications requesting $28 million, and 79 projects were selected. More than $44.5 million was provided in matching funds for a total trail investment exceeding $69.3 million.</p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);color:rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Roboto, sans-serif;font-size:16px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;margin-bottom:0px;margin-top:16px;orphans:2;text-align:left;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;"><strong>Eastern North Carolina grant recipients and amounts: </strong></p><ul style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);color:rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Roboto, sans-serif;font-size:16px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;orphans:2;text-align:left;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;"><li><strong>Dare County: </strong>Town of Nags Head, $100,000 for Design for South Croatan Highway multi-use path extension</li><li><strong>Dare County: </strong>Dare County, $269,000 for Marshall & Gussie Collins Walkway Maintenance Project</li><li><strong>Edgecombe County: </strong>Freedom Org, $265,985 for Princeville Heritage Trail Expansion </li><li><strong>Edgecombe and Nash Counties: </strong>City of Rocky Mount, $162,600 for Tar River Paddle Trail Access Renovation (Mile 88 to 124)</li><li><strong>Martin County: </strong>Roanoke River Partners, Inc., $400,000 for Hamilton Rosenwald River Center and Amenities </li><li><strong>New Hanover County: </strong>City of Wilmington, $500,000 for Bridge and Boardwalk Reconstruction in Greenfield Park</li><li><strong>Pasquotank County: </strong>City of Elizabeth City, $100,000 for Pasquotank Blueways Feasibility Study</li><li><strong>Pender County: </strong>East Coast Greenway Alliance, $177,200 for East Coast Greenway Country Club Dr. Corridor NC-210 MUP </li><li><strong>Perquimans County:</strong> Town of Hertford, $160,000 for Hertford Riverfront Boardwalk Plan</li><li><strong>Pitt County: </strong>City of Greenville, $500,000 for Wildwood Park to River Park North Boardwalk</li></ul></div> <div class="field field--name-field-release-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item">Jul 23, 2025</div> <ul class="related-topics"> <li class="field__item"><div id="taxonomy-term-279" class="taxonomy-term vocabulary-press-release-terms"> <a href="/press-release-terms/infrastructure"> <div class="field field--name-name field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Infrastructure</div> </a> <div class="content"> </div> </div> </li> </ul>

Vasquez Law Firm Legal Team
TPSEADNorth Carolina
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Immigration
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NC Immigration Impact: Governor Update

New NC law or policy affecting immigrants: <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">Governor Stein, Department of Environmental Quality Announce $204 Million for Drinking Water and Wastewater Projects</span> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"><span>lsaito</span></span> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"><time datetime="2025-07-23T09:59:08-04:00" title="Wednesday, July 23, 2025 - 09:59" class="datetime">Wed, 07/23/2025 - 09:59</time> </span> <div class="field field--name-field-city-location field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Raleigh, NC</div> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Governor Josh Stein announced today that 27 counties across the state will receive more than $204 million in funding for 48 drinking water and wastewater infrastructure projects. The awards will improve drinking water and wastewater infrastructure, address PFAS and other forever chemicals, identify and replace lead pipes, and improve resiliency after future storms.<o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin-top:12.0pt;">“When you turn on the faucet in your home, you shouldn’t have to worry about whether that water is safe for your family,” <strong>said Governor Josh Stein.</strong> “These investments will help ensure North Carolinians have access to clean drinking water and will help keep people safe when disaster strikes." <o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin-top:12.0pt;">“At DEQ, we’re committed to ensuring everyone in North Carolina has access to clean water,” <strong>said Department of Environmental Quality Secretary Reid Wilson. </strong>“This funding will address aging infrastructure and improve public health for communities large and small.”<o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin-top:12.0pt;">Notable projects include:<o:p></o:p></p><ul type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="color:black;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;tab-stops:list .5in;"><strong>The Town of Bryson City (Swain County) </strong>will receive $9.2 million in Clean Water State Revolving Funds for wastewater treatment plant improvements.<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="color:black;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;tab-stops:list .5in;"><strong>The Town of Waynesville (Haywood County) </strong>will receive $8.2 million from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund for improvements to the Little Champion Gravity Sewer and Pump Station.<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="color:black;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;tab-stops:list .5in;"><strong>The City of Graham (Alamance County) </strong>will receive $3.4 million in Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) Drinking Water State Revolving Fund-Emerging Contaminant (PFAS) Construction funding for Graham-Mebane Water Treatment Plant improvements. <o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="color:black;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;tab-stops:list .5in;"><strong>The Fayetteville Public Works Commission (Cumberland County)</strong> will receive $20.5 million from IIJA Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Emerging Contaminant (PFAS) Construction funding for the P.O. Hoffer / Glenville Lake Water Treatment Plant Granulated Activated Carbon (GAC) facility.<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="color:black;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;tab-stops:list .5in;"><strong>The Town of River Bend (Craven County)</strong> will receive $6.3 million in Drinking Water State Revolving Funds for Phase II drinking water improvements.<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="color:black;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;tab-stops:list .5in;"><strong>The Martin County Regional Water and Sewer Authority</strong> will receive $1 million in IIJA Drinking Water State Revolving Fund-Emerging Contaminant (PFAS) Construction funding for GAC filters for PFAS removal. <o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="color:black;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;tab-stops:list .5in;"><strong>The City of Lenoir (Caldwell County)</strong> will receive $5.6 million from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund for Lower Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant Process Basin Improvements. Lenoir will also receive $1 million in IIJA Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Lead Service Line funding for its Lead Service Line Inventory Phase 3 project. <o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="color:black;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;tab-stops:list .5in;"><strong>The City of Lexington (Davidson County) </strong>will receive $13.7 million in Clean Water State Revolving Funds for the Lexington Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant Solids Handling Improvements project.<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="color:black;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;tab-stops:list .5in;"><strong>The City of Henderson (Vance County)</strong> will receive $10.7 million from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund for the Sandy Creek Pump Station and Force Main project.<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="color:black;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;tab-stops:list .5in;"><strong>The Town of Warrenton (Warren County)</strong> will receive $10 million from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund for its Phase IV Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvements project.<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="color:black;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;tab-stops:list .5in;"><strong>The City of Sanford (Lee County)</strong> will receive $7.3 million in Clean Water State Revolving Funds for its Dry Creek Basin Sewer Rehabilitation project and $1 million each for its Sanford/TriRiver Water/Chatham County and Sanford/TriRiver Water/Siler City Lead Service Line Inventory projects.<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="color:black;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;tab-stops:list .5in;"><strong>The Pfeiffer-North Stanly Water Association (Stanly County) </strong>will receive $4.9 million in Drinking Water State Revolving Funds for its N. Main Street and Old 52 waterline replacement project.<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="color:black;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;tab-stops:list .5in;"><strong>Carolina Water Service, Inc. </strong>will receive a total of $5.5 million for six projects involving PFAS-related, lead service line identification or water line-related funding in Cumberland, Gaston, Moore and Pender counties.<o:p></o:p></li></ul><p style="margin-top:12.0pt;">A <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.deq.nc.gov%2Fwater-infrastructure%2Fjuly-2025-award-spreadsheet%2Fdownload%3Fattachment%3D&data=05%7C02%7Clogan.saito%40nc.gov%7C44b7690e216344b0e26808ddc9f0846e%7C7a7681dcb9d0449a85c3ecc26cd7ed19%7C0%7C0%7C638888757034093701%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=yS6oZDFpL6ti8Z6WyANs3Xf2sTb2GMXllwiKRG31YII%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank">list of all projects selected for funding</a> is available on the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) website.<o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin-top:12.0pt;">NCDEQ’s Division of Water Infrastructure reviewed 133 eligible applications, which requested a total of $1.57 billion. The <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fclick-1346310.icptrack.com%2Ficp%2Frelay.php%3Fr%3D42059804%26msgid%3D522264%26act%3D93CF%26c%3D1346310%26pid%3D1138083%26destination%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.deq.nc.gov%252Fabout%252Fdivisions%252Fwater-infrastructure%252Fstate-water-infrastructure-authority%26cf%3D13425%26v%3Df9d109a0eabcfb138bfed693ca6127bef5a3f206e36752f3370a748d1ae590cb&data=05%7C02%7Clogan.saito%40nc.gov%7C44b7690e216344b0e26808ddc9f0846e%7C7a7681dcb9d0449a85c3ecc26cd7ed19%7C0%7C0%7C638888757034108339%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=vpJp52srsw%2BkTNl1pe3z6IPyRitaOOnsKlFPFuYRIYU%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank">State Water Infrastructure Authority</a> approved the awards during its <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.deq.nc.gov%2Fnews%2Fevents%2Fstate-water-infrastructure-authority-meeting-july-16-2025&data=05%7C02%7Clogan.saito%40nc.gov%7C44b7690e216344b0e26808ddc9f0846e%7C7a7681dcb9d0449a85c3ecc26cd7ed19%7C0%7C0%7C638888757034121957%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ZkI41gMxTGtEpYmk4bSfGQ2BisDnL6BoK%2FLVQq1CiaY%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank">July 16 meeting</a>. The Authority is an independent body with primary responsibility for awarding federal and state funding for water infrastructure projects. <o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin-top:12.0pt;">Funding this round came from the State Revolving Funds, including IIJA funds. The State Revolving Funds provide low-interest loans that may be partially forgiven for drinking water and wastewater projects. State Revolving Funds are funded by federal capitalization grants and revolving loan repayments. This round included IIJA Emerging Contaminants (PFAS) funds and IIJA Lead Service Line Replacement funds. <o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin-top:12.0pt;">The Division of Water Infrastructure’s Fall 2025 funding round begins July 29. Applications are due by 5 p.m. Sept. 30, 2025. Funding for the Fall 2025 round will come from multiple existing programs, including evaluating options to address PFAS contamination, identifying and replacing lead service lines, and Viable Utility Reserve grants. The Viable Utility Reserve provides grants to local government units that are designated as Distressed for planning and construction projects that will support the long-term viability of the utility. <o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin-top:12.0pt;">In addition, the Division will accept applications on a rolling basis for the new federal supplemental appropriations from the 2025 American Relief Act to build resilience to infrastructure for Hurricane Helene-impacted communities. Helene State Revolving Fund supplemental funds for western North Carolina towns that have experienced Helene damage will continue to be available through year-round applications starting at the end of July until 2026. <o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin-top:12.0pt;">The Division of Water Infrastructure will conduct in-person <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.deq.nc.gov%2Fabout%2Fdivisions%2Fwater-infrastructure%2Ffall-2025-application-training-ebs-training-and-water-wastewater-energy-efficiency-training-etc&data=05%7C02%7Clogan.saito%40nc.gov%7C44b7690e216344b0e26808ddc9f0846e%7C7a7681dcb9d0449a85c3ecc26cd7ed19%7C0%7C0%7C638888757034135198%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=J0sJo7iVLDtO0bXDa02CkIrRTknW96CyIKEcjmSolco%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank">funding application training</a> for the Fall 2025 funding round at six locations: Clyde, Hickory, Boone, Fayetteville, Winterville, and Research Triangle Park/Durham. A virtual option via Webex will also be available, and a recording of the training will be posted on the Division’s <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.deq.nc.gov%2Fabout%2Fdivisions%2Fwater-infrastructure%2Ffall-2025-application-training-ebs-training-and-water-wastewater-energy-efficiency-training-etc&data=05%7C02%7Clogan.saito%40nc.gov%7C44b7690e216344b0e26808ddc9f0846e%7C7a7681dcb9d0449a85c3ecc26cd7ed19%7C0%7C0%7C638888757034148553%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=%2BlL3Cp0gNY44akDFDO2M2%2FzZWPA9qjfR1wSoJxR6ims%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank">training web page</a>.<o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin-top:12.0pt;">Learn more about the Division of Water Infrastructure’s funding programs <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.deq.nc.gov%2Fabout%2Fdivisions%2Fwater-infrastructure&data=05%7C02%7Clogan.saito%40nc.gov%7C44b7690e216344b0e26808ddc9f0846e%7C7a7681dcb9d0449a85c3ecc26cd7ed19%7C0%7C0%7C638888757034162165%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=Y5ZV%2BBazwHtQj9ThJCrSOgA3Wni43avw3fQuUnta3i0%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank">here</a>. <o:p></o:p></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-release-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item">Jul 23, 2025</div> <ul class="related-topics"> <li class="field__item"><div id="taxonomy-term-276" class="taxonomy-term vocabulary-press-release-terms"> <a href="/press-release-terms/environment"> <div class="field field--name-name field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Environment</div> </a> <div class="content"> </div> </div> </li> <li class="field__item"><div id="taxonomy-term-279" class="taxonomy-term vocabulary-press-release-terms"> <a href="/press-release-terms/infrastructure"> <div class="field field--name-name field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Infrastructure</div> </a> <div class="content"> </div> </div> </li> </ul>

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Immigration Update: Drug Crime Sentencing

Important immigration law development: Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that Brian Keith Speights (68, Jacksonville) has pleaded guilty to escaping from federal custody at a halfway house in Jacksonville. At sentencing, Speights will face up to five years in prison. Speights was arrested on January 20, 2025, in Jacksonville and has been in federal custody since that time.

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Immigration Update: 63 months for

Important immigration law development: A 21-year-old Laredo resident has been sentenced to federal prison for exploiting social media, inclement weather and the Covid-19 pandemic to carry out a multi-year conspiracy to smuggle illegal aliens into the country

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Important immigration law development: A Miami man was sentenced to 60 months in prison for conspiring to defraud the United States by concealing millions of dollars in assets and income in undisclosed Swiss bank accounts and claiming to the IRS that those assets were not his and instead belonged to foreign nationals.

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Immigration Update: Federal Criminal Conviction

Important immigration law development: United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, announced that DA’QUAN TUCKER was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Philip M. Halpern to 57 months in prison for repeatedly stabbing his former cellmate in the head and face with a 6‑inch contraband knife on April 3, 2024, while incarcerated at Federal Correctional Institution (“FCI”) Otisville.

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