Bacon’s Bill Provides Assurances to Loved Ones of First Responders

Hector Orozco is one step closer to having peace of mind regarding his immigration status thanks to a bill introduced by Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02), that passed today in the House. H.R. 6580 the Kerrie Orozco First Responders Act passed under a voice vote and is now awaiting introduction in the Senate. The bill is named after Omaha Police Officer and mother Kerrie Orozco, wife of Hector, who was slain by a gang member in the line of duty. 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. Under current law, the surviving family members of first responders who have pending immigration applications face delays in the naturalization process.

Rep. Bacon stated after the vote:

“Officer Orozco’s husband Hector has an enormous responsibility as a single parent because of the loss of his wife. Our first responders protect us in our communities every day, while putting their personal lives and safety at risk. This legislation honors those first responders, including law enforcement. 

“I want to thank the cosponsors of this legislation, Orozco family attorney Kristen Fearnow, and many other supporters. I also would like to thank former Congressman Brad Ashford who introduced similar legislation in 2016 named after Officer Orozco.

“This is a perfect example of how we can work together and do what is right for those who serve our communities. 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.”

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