Understanding How Boston’s Immigration Law Affects You

Immigration laws can affect your life in many different ways, whether you are an immigrant or a resident of the United States. In Boston, the city has passed several laws that affect immigrants, both legal and illegal. Understanding how these laws may affect you will help you make informed decisions about your life and your rights.

Boston’s Immigration Laws

Boston has several laws related to immigration. These laws range from laws that protect immigrants from discrimination to laws that criminalize certain activities related to immigration. The Boston City Council passed the Immigrant Rights and Protections Ordinance in 2017, which protects immigrants from discrimination based on their national origin, ethnicity, or immigration status. The ordinance also prohibits employers from asking about an applicant’s immigration status or requiring them to provide documentation proving their legal status.

The city also passed the Safe Communities Act in 2018, which limits the ability of local law enforcement to cooperate with federal immigration authorities. The act requires that local law enforcement must have a warrant or judicial order before they can detain someone solely on the basis of their immigration status. The act also restricts the data and information that local law enforcement can share about immigrants with federal immigration authorities.

Legal Rights of Immigrants

Immigrants in Boston have the same legal rights as any other resident of the city. This includes the right to due process and the right to access services and benefits, such as health care and education. Immigrants also have the right to work in the United States, as long as they have legal authorization to do so.

In addition, immigrants in Boston are protected from discrimination by state and federal laws. This means that employers and landlords cannot refuse to hire or rent to someone based on their nationality, race, ethnicity, or immigration status.

Rights of Undocumented Immigrants

Undocumented immigrants are not eligible for most federal benefits, such as welfare or Social Security. However, they are eligible for state benefits, such as health care and education. In addition, they are also protected from discrimination in employment and housing.

What You Can Do

If you are an immigrant in Boston, it is important to understand your rights and make sure you are following the law. Make sure you have the proper documents to work in the United States and keep them up to date. Also, if you are the victim of discrimination, you can file a complaint with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination.

It is also important to stay informed about the laws that affect immigrants in Boston. This can help you make sure you are following the law and understanding your rights.

Conclusion

Boston has passed several laws that affect immigrants, both legal and illegal. Understanding how these laws may affect you will help you make informed decisions about your life and your rights. Immigrants in Boston have the same legal rights as any other resident of the city, including the right to due process and access services and benefits. They are also protected from discrimination in employment and housing. It is important to stay informed about the laws that affect immigrants in Boston and make sure you are following the law.