Changes to immigration program for domestic violence victims impede safety, advocates say

New guidance from the Trump administration under the Violence Against Women Act is making it harder for immigrant domestic violence survivors to obtain legal status, according to advocates. A Michigan attorney's client, who experienced physical abuse and submitted evidence of a genuine marriage, had her application denied due to stricter requirements for proving 'good faith' cohabitation. Federal officials argue the changes aim to prevent fraud but critics say they create barriers for vulnerable survivors.