DHS Establishes Interim Relief for Widows of U.S. Citizens

Today DHS Secretary Janet Napolitano granted deferred action for two years to widows and widowers of U.S. citizens (as well as their unmarried children under 18 years old) who reside in the United States and who were married for less than two years prior to their spouse’s death. While Secretary Napolitano's directive is not a permanent solution to the so-called "widow penalty," we nonetheless commend her efforts in recognizing and addressing the harsh results that can befall widows and widowers through no fault of their own. A press release regarding this directive can be found at http://www.dhs.gov/ynews/releases/pr_1244578412501.shtm