OMAHA, NE - Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) has gained the support of the NAACP for H.R.1970, the Kerrie Orozco Act.  The legislation allows the immediate relatives of first responders who die in the line of duty to continue to process their immigration application in a timely manner despite the death of their loved one.

“I appreciate the time that the NAACP took to research the legislation, and for their endorsement of this bill that provides protections for the families of first responders who die in the line of duty,” said Congressman Bacon. “This legislation provides the same courtesy that is given to the families of men and women in uniform who are killed.”

Under current law, the surviving family members of first responders who have pending immigration applications face delays in the naturalization process, sometimes even seeing the process come to a complete halt.

“This common-sense legislation, which allows for surviving family members of fallen U.S. citizens who died while serving as a first responder to be naturalized is not only the morally right thing to do, but it is consistent with the NAACP’s call for a humane approach to immigration reform,” said Hilary Shelton, Director, NAACP Washington Bureau and Senior Vice President for Policy and Advocacy.

Congressman Bacon is also securing bi-partisan support for the bill, and expects to gain more with the addition of the NAACP’s backing.

“This is a perfect example of how we can work together and do what is right for those who serve our communities,” added Congressman Bacon. “Officer Kerrie Orozco not only made a mark on the Omaha community through her volunteer and mentoring work, she was a mother to a beautiful little girl and loving wife to her husband Hector. We owe this peace of mind concerning their families to Kerrie and other first responders.”

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