Our Community, Our Future: Navigating Recent Legislation and Protecting Our Families
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Dear Friends,
The Louisiana Organization for Refugees and Immigrants (LORI) supports refugees and immigrants throughout their various stages of integration, enabling them to become self-reliant. This is achieved through social integration, economic advancement, immigration legal aid, and advocacy & civic engagement. LORI is a refugee and immigrant-led organization based in Baton Rouge committed to the full integration of refugees and immigrants into the civic, cultural, and economic fabric of Louisiana
In recent weeks, several new laws have been enacted that directly impact our immigrant and refugee communities. We understand that these changes can bring uncertainty and concern. This newsletter is designed to provide you with a clear, human-centered understanding of these laws and their potential effects on our families, children, and the very fabric of our community. Our goal is to empower you with knowledge and practical steps you can take to navigate these new realities. |
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Understanding the New Laws: What You Need to Know
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It’s crucial to understand how these legislative changes might affect you and your loved ones. We’ve broken down some of the key acts to help clarify their implications: |
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Breaking It Down: What Each Law Really Means for Us
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Act 399 [SB 15]
Criminalizing Non-Cooperation and Its Impact on Families
?The Law: This act criminalizes interference with federal immigration enforcement, including non-cooperation by local police.
Our Community’s Reality: This law introduces challenges that could lead to family separations and create fear within our homes. It impacts the stability and well-being of our loved ones, making it harder for families to stay together and disrupting the vital social and cultural connections that strengthen our communities. We are committed to helping you understand your rights and how to protect your family in these situations.
? Learn More
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Act 351 [HB 307] Verifying Immigration Status for Public Assistance The Law: This act requires state agencies to verify the immigration status of anyone applying for public assistance. If an applicant is not a citizen or legal resident, they are reported to ICE and may lose benefits. Our Community’s Reality: This act could mean that families, including children, may lose access to vital support services such as healthcare, food assistance, or housing aid. Such disruptions make it harder to provide for basic needs and can significantly impact the well-being and development of children, potentially disrupting their education and sense of security. ? Learn More |
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Act 292 [HB 544] Driver’s Licenses and Voting Identification for Non-Citizens The Law: Non-citizens and lawfully present immigrants will receive a driver’s license or state ID that includes a code indicating they are ineligible to vote. They will also be given a formal notice about voting restrictions — available in multiple languages. Our Community’s Reality: Though presented as an administrative update, this law may further stigmatize and isolate lawfully present immigrants by visibly labeling their ID status. It risks fueling misunderstanding, discrimination, and fear — especially in everyday interactions. We believe in building an informed community without promoting policies that make our immigrant neighbors feel “othered.” ? ? Learn More |
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Act 419 [SB 100]
Driver’s Licenses and
Voting Restrictions
The Law: Non-citizens and lawfully present immigrants will receive a driver’s license/ID with a code indicating ineligibility to vote and will receive a formal notice in multiple languages about voting restrictions.
Our Community’s Reality:
While seemingly administrative, this law contributes to a climate where our non-citizen neighbors, including those who are lawfully present, may feel further marginalized and singled out. We want to ensure everyone in our community feels respected and informed about their rights and responsibilities, and that this measure does not create unnecessary anxiety or barriers
? Learn More
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Act 264 [HB 303] Special Unit for Capturing Fugitives The Law:This act creates a special unit within the Attorney General’s office focused on capturing fugitives, working alongside federal (ICE, US Marshals) and local agencies. Our Community’s Reality: While aimed at public safety, the creation of such units and their collaboration with federal immigration enforcement can increase fear and distrust within immigrant communities ? Learn More |
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Act 17 [ HB 436 ] Limits on Legal Claims After Car Accidents for Certain Immigrants The Law: This law prohibits “unauthorized aliens” — people without legal immigration status — from recovering general damages (like pain and suffering) or lost wages if they are involved in a car accident, unless the claim is made against an uninsured or underinsured motorist policy. Our Community’s Reality: This law creates a harmful precedent that devalues the lives and well-being of undocumented individuals. It signals that some people’s pain or lost income matters less under the law, even when they are harmed through no fault of their own. This may deter individuals from seeking justice or medical care after an accident, deepening fear and inequality in our communities. ? Learn More |
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Upcoming Immigration Challenges & Policy Updates
Understanding the Real-Life Impact on Our Communities
Across the country, immigrant families — including long-term residents, students, workers, and DACA recipients — are facing growing uncertainty as new rules and policy proposals emerge. Here’s a closer look at the most urgent developments, what they mean, and why we must stay informed and engaged: |
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Proposed Restrictions on Asylum Seekers’ Work Permits
What’s Happening:
Officials under former President Trump are working on a proposal that would make it harder for asylum seekers to receive work authorization while their cases are pending.
What It Means for Our Communities:
For many who fled persecution and are waiting lawfully in the U.S. for a decision on their asylum case, a work permit is their only lifeline — enabling them to provide for their families, find housing, and maintain dignity. These proposed changes would further marginalize some of the most vulnerable, making it harder to survive while awaiting legal protection.
Source: CBS News
CBS News: Trump officials crafting rule to prevent asylum-seekers from getting work permits |
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Work Permit Application
Fees Update
What’s Happening:
Changes in USCIS fee structures could result in increased application costs for work permits, disproportionately impacting low-income immigrants and DACA recipients.
Community Impact:
Many young people under DACA already struggle with financial barriers to renewal every two years. Increased fees could result in more missed renewals, job losses, or even the inability to remain in school or healthcare plans.
Read More: Work Permit Application Fees Update |
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DACA Under Threat Again
What’s Happening:?
DHS is now urging DACA recipients to prepare to self-deport, according to leaked guidance and policy shifts.
Why It Matters:
This creates intense fear and instability for individuals who have lived nearly their whole lives in the U.S., working, studying, and raising families. These young people — often called Dreamers — now face the terrifying prospect of forced removal from the only country they know as home.
Read More: DHS is urging DACA recipients to self-deport
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Changes to Passport & Social Security Rules
What’s Happening:
New internal documents suggest that the Trump administration is developing plans to restrict birthright citizenship by altering how passports and Social Security numbers are issued for U.S.-born children of immigrants.
Why It’s Concerning:
This represents an attempt to redefine who is considered an American, targeting children born on U.S. soil and potentially denying them key identification documents. It threatens core constitutional rights and could lead to statelessness or barriers to education, healthcare, and employment.
Read More
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Third-Country Deportations & D.V.D. v. DHS
What’s Happening:
A new lawsuit challenges the U.S. government’s growing use of “third-country” deportations, where individuals are expelled to countries they’ve never lived in, often with no support or protections.
Community Impact:
This policy endangers lives by deporting people to unfamiliar countries where they may face danger or have no ties. It erodes the idea of due process and lawful protection under U.S. immigration law.
Source: National Immigration Litigation Alliance – Practice Alert – ?National Immigration Litigation Alliance – PRACTICE ALERT: Third Country Deportations and D.V.D. v. DHS |
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Temporary Protected Status (TPS) Updates – Where We Stand Now
???? Nicaragua | Haiti | Honduras | Nepal
TPS holders from multiple countries are facing conflicting legal realities. While DHS has announced terminations for some countries, a new federal court decision has paused those efforts for others. Here’s what you need to know: |
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? Termination Announced: Haiti
TPS ends: ???? Effective June 27, 2025
What’s Happening:
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DHS has officially terminated TPS for Haiti, encouraging recipients to pursue other forms of lawful status. This decision ignores ongoing crises and puts thousands of Haitians at risk of deportation and separation from their families.
?Source USCIS:
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Court Halts Terminations: Nicaragua, Honduras & Nepal Case: National TPS Alliance v. Noem ???? Update as of July 31, 2025 What’s Happening: Although DHS had previously announced the end of TPS for Nicaragua [Effective July 7, 2025], a federal court has now blocked the termination for Nicaragua, Honduras, and Nepal — at least through November 18, 2025, while litigation continues. ? Learn More |
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Why It Matters:
This ruling is a temporary safeguard, offering relief for thousands of TPS holders, but not permanent protection. Legal uncertainty remains, and families must stay informed and prepared.
Community Impact
TPS has been a lifeline for many, including workers, parents, and community leaders. These legal changes deeply affect the lives of our neighbors and friends.
At LORI, we are committed to ensuring every TPS holder has access to accurate information,
?legal guidance, and a community that cares. |
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Temporary Protected Status (TPS) Updates — Afghanistan & Cameroon
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Afghanistan
What’s Happening: DHS has terminated TPS for Afghanistan, effective July 14, 2025. This means the program and the associated employment authorization documents (EADs) will end at that time.
TPS Afghanistan
Our Reality: Over 11,000 Afghans who were legally protected from removal now face deportation as conditions in Afghanistan remain unsafe—especially under Taliban rule. Many report preferring death over being forcibly returned.
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Cameroon What’s Happening: DHS will terminate TPS for Cameroon on August?4, 2025, at 11:59?p.m. EADs associated with Cameroon’s TPS must be reverified by employers beginning August 5, 2025. Cameroon Our Reality: Cameroonian nationals currently shielded from deportation and allowed to work are again made vulnerable. Without this protection, families may lose their income, homes, and stability. |
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Asylum Policy Shifts (Updated July 18, 2025)
New federal fees now require asylum seekers to pay $550 for an initial work permit (previously free) and $745–$795 to renew, depending on filing method. Fee waivers are limited or unavailable in many cases.
As of January 20, 2025, a presidential proclamation indefinitely suspends the right to seek asylum at the southern border, making nearly all ports of entry inaccessible to asylum seekers. These changes intensify hardship—making legal protection harder to access and forcing families into legal limbo or dangerous pathways.
Why It Matters
- TPS protections allowed many to legally work, support families, and recover from trauma.
- The termination of TPS and steep new fees for asylum/work permits disproportionately harm communities already facing economic and emotional stress.
- Current policy changes increase fear, lower access to justice, and strip away dignity and stability from people who arrived seeking safety.
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The One Big Beautiful Bill Act: 10 Hidden Harms You Should Know
Source: Center for American Progress
The Law:
This sweeping bill, promoted as a solution to economic and immigration issues, contains deep cuts to vital safety nets, expands enforcement, and benefits the wealthy — all while shifting more burdens onto working families, immigrants, women, students, and rural communities.
Our Community’s Reality:
Beneath the headlines, this bill quietly undermines healthcare, food access, and protections for vulnerable populations. It threatens to strip resources from immigrants, single mothers, students, and seniors, while boosting funding for mass deportation and fossil fuels. It reflects a growing trend: packaging harmful policies under appealing names, while everyday people suffer the consequences.
Key Harms:
- ? Cuts Medicaid funding — hurting women’s health providers like Planned Parenthood
- ???? Ends premium assistance for low-income seniors and disabled people
- ???? Adds new out-of-pocket costs to Medicaid patients
- ???? Slashes SNAP benefits for foster youth, veterans, and the unhoused
- ????? Requires burdensome paperwork that disqualifies people from needed care
- ???? Threatens closure of rural hospitals
- ???? Quietly reduces Medicare access over time
- ???? Expands tax breaks that favor the ultra-wealthy
- ???? Rolls back clean energy investments, boosts fossil fuels
- ???? Dramatically expands ICE funding and deportation quotas
Why It Matters:
This isn’t just policy — it’s people’s lives. The bill would weaken the very foundations of health, safety, and dignity for millions. It’s essential that our communities understand what’s at stake and raise our voices for justice and inclusion.
? Learn More |
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Join Us for the 20th Anniversary of Katrina Week of Action
Preparedness with Power & Protection
???? August 29, 2025 | 4:30 PM
???? 1120 Government St, Baton Rouge, LA 70802
This year marks 20 years since Hurricane Katrina reshaped our region forever. As part of the Katrina 20 Week of Action—a movement for remembrance, resilience, and justice—LORI is honored to host a community event grounded in protection, healing, and preparedness.
Why You Should Join Us
?? Build awareness around disaster readiness and climate safety
?? Learn about FEMA flood insurance and how to spot fraud
?? Connect with neighbors and local leaders on community support systems
?? Honor those we’ve lost and the resilience of those who continue to rise |
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Financial Readiness Matters: Watch & Prepare
Disasters don’t just test our homes — they test our finances. Learn how to protect what matters most with this short and practical video from FEMA:
???? Five Key Actions to Prepare Financially for Disasters
This is a must-watch for anyone looking to build financial resilience before disaster strikes. Share it with your community — preparedness starts with knowledge.
“We prepare not in fear, but in purpose.” |
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Partner Spotlight: Join Us In Advocacy
???? Dates: September 8–12, 2025
???? Registration Deadline: July 31st
???? Register here
We’re proud to be part of We Are All America’s 2025 National Advocacy Days, a virtual week of action where communities across the country will meet with congressional leaders to advocate for inclusive and humane immigration policies. This is a powerful opportunity to sharpen your advocacy skills and make your voice heard.? |
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Empowerment Starts with Language & Belonging
At LORI, we believe that language is not just about words — it’s about connection, confidence, and access. That’s why we’re excited to invite you to join our Culturally Attuned ESL Program and Naturalize Now Citizenship Classes, happening Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM.
Whether you’re just starting your English journey or preparing for the citizenship process, we’re here to walk with you — with patience, care, and culturally responsive support.
Why Join?
???? Culturally Attuned ESL
Build your English skills in a diverse environment and gain tools to thrive at work, in school, and in everyday life — while celebrating your identity.
???? Naturalize Now
Preparing to become a U.S. citizen? Our team will guide you through the process, helping you gain the knowledge, confidence, and support you need to succeed.
???? Registration is Open
Click or scan the QR codes on the flyers to sign up today, or visit: www.mylori.org
Let’s learn, grow, and build a stronger community — together. |
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Join Us for Our Next One Community Dialogue
???? Friday, August 15 | ???? 5: 00 PM
???? Location: Zoom (link will be shared upon registration)
Our One Community Dialogue is more than a meeting — it’s a space for connection, clarity, and community-led solutions.
Each session offers a meaningful opportunity to come together and explore:
?? Policy updates that impact immigrants and refugees
?? Legal education sessions
?? Access to critical resources and services
?? Dialogue across cultures, generations, and lived experiences
Whether you’re newly arrived or a long-time resident, a student or an organizer, your voice belongs here.
???? Zoom link and agenda to follow — stay tuned and save the date!
Let’s keep building a more informed, united, and resilient Louisiana — together. |
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Be the Reason Someone Feels Safe, Seen, and Supported
When you give to LORI, you’re doing more than offering help—you’re restoring hope to families who have lost everything.
You’re saying: “You matter. You belong here.”
In a time when immigrants and refugees are facing growing uncertainty — from targeted laws to uprooted protections — your support becomes a lifeline.
It’s the blanket around a child at their first health screening.
It’s the lawyer beside a mother at her asylum hearing.
It’s the mentor guiding a teen to their first job.
It’s the voice reminding them: you are not invisible, and you are not alone.
What Your Support Makes Possible
- Legal clinics for families fighting deportation
- Leadership and education programs for refugee youth
- Emergency assistance for families recovering from trauma
- Community outreach to ensure everyone understands their rights
- Advocacy to challenge unjust policies and fight for equity
Supporting LORI means building a Louisiana that reflects all of us —
a place where every neighbor can live with dignity, safety, and purpose.
Ways to Make a Difference
???? Donate: Every gift, no matter the size, fuels direct services, advocacy, and urgent response.
???? Partner: Join hands with us as a business, faith group, school, or civic organization.
???? Volunteer: Lend your time and talent to help newcomers thrive.
???? Share Our Story: Help spread the word so more people understand what’s at stake and how to help.
Together, we can build a state where no one is left behind, and where our diversity is our strength.
Join us — and let’s create a more just, welcoming, and resilient Louisiana for all.
Support our work today– because hope starts with us.
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Thank you for being a part of our journey. Stay informed and get involved
Together, we can make a difference.
LORI CARES |
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