Politics & Government

Few Undocumented Immigrants Seek Bishop's Help So Far

Information sought as many wait to hear about the "mechanics" of the policy.

Although U.S. Rep. Tim Bishop, D-Southampton, invited that would keep some young people from being deported, so far, the number who have stepped up for assistance is slim.

"Fifteen people have contacted us thus far for more information about the policy, either for themselves or someone they know," said Oliver Longwell, a representative for Bishop, on Monday.

President Obama surprised the country when he announced a plan to would allow some of the more than 800,000 immigrants who came to the country as children to obtain work visas. 

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Longwell said he imagines some people are waiting until the Department of Homeland Security promulgates regulations on the steps individuals will need to take to benefit from the policy, including forms to be filled out, fees, and documentation that needs to be provided.

"For now, our role is focused on getting good information out to the community until DHS announces how the mechanics of the policy will work," Longwell said.

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Isabel Sepulveda, the co-founder and president of Organizacion Latino Americana of Eastern Long Island, said some young people have questions regarding documentation; she said anyone wishing to apply needs to prove how long they have been in the country by showing records of school attendance, pediatrician visits and bank accounts.

Sepulveda said she is sending young people who reach out for assistance to an employee at Bishop's office who has been designated to help.

"We also anticipate that we will be hearing from more young people now that school is out, as they may have been focused on final exams," Longwell said. 

Obama's decision was not met with support from Republicans. Last week, Randy Altschuler, R-Smithtown, who will face off against Bishop during the next election, to help young undocumented immigrants.


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