Washington, DC - Congressman Ed Towns (D-Brooklyn) announced his support today for the September 11 Humanitarian Relief and Patriotism Act.  The bill would adjust the residency status of surviving spouses and children of legal employment-based visa holders and undocumented workers in jeopardy of being deported, because their immigration status was linked to a family member who was employed at the World Trade Center. 

"While previous legislation allowed these people to stay in the United States until September 10, 2002, that reprieve has expired," said Towns.  "These individuals should not be forced to leave the country because of the actions of the terrorists." 

Specifically, the bill would provide for the adjustment of status (application for permanent residence, commonly known as “green card” status) or the cancellation of removal (and adjustment of status) for the spouse, child, dependent son, or dependent daughter of victims who were killed on September 11.

"While the Administration continues to act with care by not moving forward with deportation procedures for these individuals, their legal status remains in limbo unless they are given legal status in the United States," said Towns.  "They should not continue to be victimized by the 9/11 terrorists by living in fear that they will have to leave their homes, jobs, and communities." 

"Many of these workers took double shifts to build a new life for their families here in America," continued Towns.  "We must ensure that these families' dreams for a better life in our country is protected."

The legislation is also supported by Mayor Bloomberg.  The bill is expected to provide assistance to about 200 people.

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