Immigration and Nationality Law
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) recently announced a nationwide federal effort to assist victims of human trafficking. Twelve grants totaling more than $9.5 million were recently awarded under the Trafficking Victims Protection Act Grant Program. These grants will support comprehensive services to trafficking victims, including emergency medical attention, food and shelter and legal support, and will support specialized services to trafficking victims.
In a related development, the DOJ announced that approximately 300 trafficking victims have received assistance in accessing immigration benefits. INS has granted 300 "continued presence" requests, and 23 T visas. INS has thus far received approximately 150 T visa applications. The Criminal Section of the DOJ has assisted those choosing to repatriate by maintaining housing and victim benefits pending repatriation of witnesses in trafficking investigations.
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