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OWENS APPLAUDS NYS BILL TO ENHANCE IMMIGRANT PROTECTIONS

Brooklyn, NY – Congressman Major Owens applauds the efforts of New York State on behalf of the immigrant community with a law that establishes first-ever standards for immigration consultants. Enforcement of this law will begin November 1, 2004.

“This new law, which provides consumer protection and criminal penalties against unscrupulous immigration consultants, deserves to be loudly applauded,” stated Owens.

Many immigrants are exploited by so-called immigration consultants, who charge thousands of dollars to assist in navigating the complex immigration process. Many immigrants are victims of incorrect advice and scams by these consultants who sometimes are improperly trained and unlicensed.

This law, which is part of a joint initiative with New York State Consumer Protection Board and the Governor’s Citizenship Unit, a broad educational program designed to raise awareness about consultant scam artists.

“These standards, if enforced correctly will save many immigrants extreme hardship in their quest to become citizens. Too many times victims of these scam artists have come to my office for assistance. I thank State Assemblyman Brian McLaughlin, State Senator Frank Padavan and Governor Pataki for the implementation this law.”

Click here to see the NYS press release.

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