Latest news with #OneBigBeautifulBill
Scottish Sun
18 minutes ago
- Business
- Scottish Sun
Brits face new £185 visa fee when visiting the US under new rules
Plus, the cost of an ESTA tourist visa waiver for US holidays is expected to double HOL-D ON Brits face new £185 visa fee when visiting the US under new rules Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) VISITORS heading to America could face a 'Visa Integrity Fee' under new rules. The new fee falls under President Donald Trump's 'One Big Beautiful Bill' and could see Brits paying a substantial fee to visit America. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 3 Brits could have to pay a new fee to visit the US Credit: Getty 3 Under a new bill, any traveller that needs a 'nonimmigrant visa' will have to pay $250 Credit: Getty The fee will apply to anyone who needs a 'non-immigrant visa' - which includes people travelling for business, study and temporary work for more than three months. It will cost around $250 (£185.80) and is expected to be introduced before the end of 2025. The cost will also be on top of all existing visa application fees. Individuals will pay the fee once a visa is issued and if an application is denied, then you won't be charged the fee. The fee will also be reimbursed if travellers stick to their visa conditions such as not working illegally and not overstaying their visa by more than five days. The reimbursement will be given after your visa expires - although, the process is not clear yet. Once the fee is implemented, the money will go to the US treasury Department's general fund and is estimated to bring in $28.9billion (£21.3billion) over the next decade. There will also be an increase in the fee for the I-94 form, which records arrival and departure dates. The fee will rise from $6 (£4.46) to $24 (£17.84). According to CNBC, a spokesperson from the Department of Homeland Security said: "President Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill provides the necessary policies and resources to restore integrity in our nation's immigration system." Big Changes Coming to Airport Security: TSA Liquid Rule May Be Axed Soon However, under the Visa Waiver Programme (VWP) - which the UK is part of - most Brits travelling to the US for tourism or short business trips, do not need a visa. Instead, they will need to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA). As a result, Brits eligible for and using an ESTA, will not need to pay the new Visa Integrity Fee. Brits that will be impacted by the new fee include those travelling for a purpose not covered by the VWP such as long-term study or certain types of employment or those not eligible for VWP due to their travel history, like travel to restricted countries. According to the website, travellers can apply for an ESTA via the Official ESTA Application Website or by using the ESTA mobile app. Though travellers may be unable to apply for an ESTA visa waiver if they have been arrested, have a criminal record, have been refused admission into or have been deported from the US or have previously overstayed an ESTA visa waiver. An ESTA application costs $21 (£15.60) and can take up to 72 hours to be approved. Tourist visa waiver for US holidays to cost more THE fee for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is expected to rise in the future. Thanks to a new bill being passed, the price of an ESTA is set to double from $21 (£15.38) to $40 (£29.30). Before entering the US, Brits are required to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). The fee is currently $21 (£15.38) to apply for an ESTA - a price which was introduced in May 2022. Prior to this date, the fee was $14 (£10.25) and will now rise to $40 (£29.30) although an official start date is yet to be confirmed. The rise in fees is part of US President Donald Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill". The current rules require every visitor from the UK to apply for an ESTA to be allowed access into the United States. An ESTA is generally valid for two years from the date of approval, or until the passport used for the application expires, whichever comes first. If your passport expires before the two-year period, your ESTA will be valid only until the passport's expiration date. These are the latest travel rules for Brits heading to America after European tourists have been stopped at the border. Plus, Brits will face a new £17 visa-waiver charge to travel to Europe next year.
The Star
3 hours ago
- Health
- The Star
Filipino Americans brace for impact of Trump's ‘big, beautiful bill'
LOS ANGELES: As the United States moves forward with implementing President Donald Trump's sweeping legislative package – dubbed the 'One Big Beautiful Bill' – many Filipino American communities are bracing for policy changes that could significantly impact their daily lives. From immigration and healthcare to education and remittances, advocates warn that the proposed reforms may jeopardise vital support systems for thousands of immigrant families across the country. Described by supporters as a move toward fiscal efficiency, the bill contains deep cuts to Medicaid, stricter work requirements for food assistance programmes, expanded funding for deportations and a controversial new tax on international remittances. One of the bill's most alarming aspects is its potential impact on healthcare access for millions of low-income Americans. Filipino Americans, many of whom work in frontline healthcare roles, are particularly vulnerable to the Medicaid funding cuts. This federal-state programme serves as a lifeline for many, offering essential medical coverage and preventive care. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that up to ten million Americans — primarily from communities of colour — could lose Medicaid coverage by 2034. For Filipino Americans, who already experience healthcare disparities and face higher rates of chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, the proposed changes could deepen existing inequalities. According to the National Domestic Workers Alliance (NDWA), 'Medicaid is used to pay for 70 per cent of home care and is often care workers' only pathway to affordable, quality care for themselves. These massive cuts are going to have a ripple effect throughout our communities – countless care workers will lose their jobs and their healthcare.' Jessica Caloza, representing California's 52nd Assembly District, which encompasses several Los Angeles County communities with significant Filipino American presence, such as Eagle Rock, South Glendale and Historic Filipino Town, warns that 'the Big Beautiful Bill is dangerous and will harm many of our Filipino families.' 'It gives tax breaks to the rich while slashing numerous safety net programmes, including the largest single cut to food stamps as poverty reaches a two-decade high, and a US$1 trillion cut to Medicaid,' Caloza emphasised in her statement. Major changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programme (SNAP), or 'food stamps,' could severely impact working-class Filipino American families – especially those in mixed-status households (with undocumented parents and US-born children, for example). These benefits often allow families to afford healthier, more expensive food options. Perla Bermudez Santos, founder of the MoTHER Movement, a Los Angeles-based group of Filipino American mothers and seniors, and co-author of 'Caregiving Manual II: Skills and Strategies for Compassionate Care,' noted that while members appreciate new tax deductions and the exemption of Social Security benefits from federal taxes, serious concerns remain. 'Members are worried about the rising cost of fruits, vegetables and other nutritious food options,' said Santos. 'Many seniors receive just US$1,000 a month in retirement benefits and must cover rent, food, transportation, clothing and other essentials. For them, supplemental food benefits are vital to making ends meet.' Another contentious provision is a one per cent excise tax on remittances sent abroad – impacting green card holders, visa workers and undocumented immigrants, including many Filipino Americans. With over US$10 billion in annual remittances sent to the Philippines, this tax could significantly reduce support to families abroad and affect local economies dependent on overseas funds. The bill also proposes 100 per cent tax deductions for donations to private school voucher programmes, a move critics argue could siphon funding from public schools. Many students of colour – including Filipino Americans – attend underfunded public schools that rely on government support. Additionally, expanded funding for immigration enforcement – including a US$170 billion allocation, with US$75 billion earmarked for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) – has stoked fear among the estimated 340,000 undocumented Filipino Americans. Many are longtime residents, essential workers and Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients now facing heightened uncertainty. Caloza, an immigrant and lifelong public servant who has advocated for working families throughout her various roles at the federal, state and local levels, condemned the bill's immigration provisions. 'I'm devastated by the unrest and fear that families – including Filipinos – in our communities face due to the ongoing ICE raids and increased immigration enforcement,' Caloza said. 'Our taxpayer dollars should go toward our schools, parks, libraries and hospitals – and for communities like mine that have been devastated by wildfires. We also need to invest in emergency recovery,' she added. Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAAJ), a network of four independent Asian American civil rights organisations, echoed that sentiment: 'This legislation prioritises harmful immigration crackdowns at the expense of the urgent needs of everyday Americans.' In response, Filipino American organisations across the country are launching efforts to educate and support affected families through town halls, legal clinics and resource guides. AAAJ stated, 'The Reconciliation Bill directly attacks not just immigrant communities, but all Americans who rely on essential health and nutrition programmes. We need laws that invest in opportunities and our future – not laws that cater to the mega-rich and funnel resources into systems of exclusion and cruelty.' The National Domestic Workers Alliance expressed similar resolve: 'Today, our hearts are heavy. We fought tirelessly – standing shoulder-to-shoulder at vigils, rallies and lobbying blitzes. Now, it's time to turn our grief and outrage into powerful action.' 'We are mobilising to hold accountable every lawmaker who chose cruelty over compassion. In just a few weeks, our massive Protect Medicaid Mobilisations will send an undeniable message: these heartless cuts will have consequences,' the organisation added. The Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), which includes 73 members advocating for Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities, held a press conference addressing the bill's devastating consequences. 'We are united in our commitment to protecting Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders from harmful policies that threaten our rights, our safety and our well-being,' said Rep. Grace Meng, CAPAC Chair. 'Instead of working to lower costs, as he promised on day one, President Trump and Congressional Republicans are waging endless culture wars. This is not what the American people want. CAPAC will continue to fight tooth and nail to protect our rights, hold our leaders accountable and ensure our voices are heard.' NAFCON USA, a coalition of Filipino grassroots organisations and nonprofits, also issued a call to action: 'We urge everyone to get involved, take action and stand alongside Filipino organisations to organise, defend our communities and build the future we deserve.' With the bill's implementation, Filipino Americans find themselves at a critical crossroads – confronting not only sweeping legislative changes but also profound personal consequences for their families and communities. For many, the looming enactment of Trump's 'Big Beautiful Bill' marks a defining moment in their ongoing struggle for dignity, security and the American dream. - Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN
Boston Globe
5 hours ago
- Politics
- Boston Globe
New Hampshire is expanding school choice. Will Massachusetts follow?
Advertisement This surge in school choice is part of a broader national trend. Enrollment in such programs has more than doubled since 2020 — from roughly 540,000 to more than Massachusetts, home to some of the nation's strongest private, parochial, charter, and vocational-technical schools, is increasingly being left behind, politically unwilling and legally constrained from offering families access to private options. The catalyst for this wave of private options was the US Supreme Court's 2020 decision in Espinoza v. Montana Department of Revenue. The court Advertisement Her story resonated nationwide, particularly during the pandemic. The move to online learning by public schools, union resistance to returning students to the classroom, and a seeming disregard for students' mental health and learning loss drove many families toward private and homeschool options. Even in Massachusetts, Massachusetts may remain among the top-performing states nationally, but that status masks a troubling decline. On the National Assessment of Educational Progress (the nation's report card), average eighth-grade The pandemic and student distraction due to cellphones are partially to blame, but the decline is Clearly there is a hunger for options other than traditional public school. Advertisement New Hampshire's latest choice expansion is relevant to Massachusetts because, in addition to the two states' cultural and demographic similarities, they post nearly identical academic performance. On the 2024 NAEP, New Hampshire eighth-graders scored averages of 280 in As student performance declines, Massachusetts lawmakers remain committed to a top-down, monopolistic education system. They refuse to consider private school choice, hiding behind 19th-century anti-Catholic amendments in the state constitution that prohibit public funds from flowing to religious schools, even indirectly. At the same time, lawmakers have stood by as the pillars of the Commonwealth's landmark 1993 education reforms — strong academic standards, accountability through testing, and choice through charter schools — have steadily eroded. New Hampshire is taking a more pragmatic approach: It is steadily expanding school choice with thoughtful fiscal safeguards and a clear focus on helping the students most in need. As a result, many more New Hampshire parents will now be able to narrow class- and race-based achievement gaps — whether through public or private schools, the small learning groups called The recently passed 'One Big Beautiful Bill,' President Trump's massive tax and spending plan, enacts the first national school choice program, offering scholarships funded through tax credits to all but the wealthiest families. Starting in 2027, taxpayers nationwide will be able to redirect up to $1,700 in federal taxes to approved scholarship organizations. Advertisement The program could benefit many of the 120,000 families in Massachusetts paying a private school tuition, or using homeschool and microschool options, which grew enormously during the pandemic. Expanding its appeal further, the program benefits families paying for after-school supplemental learning, including tutoring. The catch? States must opt in. For now, Massachusetts officials say they are For the dozens of states with school choice programs, including New Hampshire, the pathway forward is clear: Private school choice has broad public support and expands equality of educational opportunity. What will Massachusetts do?
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Business Standard
6 hours ago
- Politics
- Business Standard
Trump posts AI video of Obama arrested by FBI, says no one above law
The AI video that was shared on Trump's Truth Social platform shows the former President being arrested by FBI agents in the Oval Office at the White House ANI US US President Donald Trump on Monday shared an AI-generated video of showing former President Barack Obama being arrested. The AI video that was shared on Trump's Truth Social platform shows the former President being arrested by FBI agents in the Oval Office at the White House. In the clip Obama is heard saying "especially the President is above the law," followed by a montage of various US leaders asserting, "no one is above the law." The video also shows two FBI agents handcuffing Obama in the Oval Office while Trump watches from the sidelines with a grin. The video ends with shots of Obama dressed in an orange jumpsuit sitting, and pacing inside a jail. On Friday, US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, a fomer Democratic lawmaker, called for Obama administration to be "prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law," alleging a "conspiracy" by which officials "manufactured" intelligence to claim that Russia interfered in the 2016 election to boost Trump's presidential campaign. Gabbard, her press release claims, declassified documents that "revealed overwhelming evidence" allegedly showing Obama and national security officials "manufactured and politicized intelligence to lay the groundwork for what was essentially a years-long coup against President Trump." The Obama administration's "goal was to usurp President Trump and subvert the will of the American people," Gabbard posted on X. "No matter how powerful, every person involved in this conspiracy must be investigated and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. The integrity of our democratic republic depends on it." Meanwhile, the White House posted on X, " Six months in, President Trump took command--launched an all-out offensive to crush the left's mess and bring American power roaring back. The border is fortified. The economy is unleashed. The One Big Beautiful Bill is law. This is unapologetic, America-first leadership." On Thursday night, the White House social team had posted a poster replacing actor David Corenswet with Trump in the new movie 'Superman.' It read "A Trump presidency," at the top followed by the slogan: "Truth. Justice. The American Way." The accompanying caption referred to "Superman Trump" as the "Symbol of hope. (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
New York Post
13 hours ago
- Politics
- New York Post
GOP blasts ‘fearmongering' Ocasio-Cortez for mocking Stefanik at North Country stop: ‘AOC is beyond parody'
PLATTSBURGH, NY – Republicans are accusing Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of 'fearmongering' during a stop in Rep. Elise Stefanik's upstate district — where she said the congresswoman is 'not welcome here anymore.' The lefty Big Apple pol quickly jumped into politics at a Plattsburgh town-hall event advertised as a response to President Trump's 'One Big Beautiful Bill,' mocking Stefanik for taking a farewell tour of the district when she thought she was about to become the US ambassador to the United Nations. 4 Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez speaking at the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago at the United Center on August 19, 2024. Ron Sachs – CNP for NY Post Advertisement 'Elise did her farewell tour, and I think it's time to finish the job,' AOC yelled to a cheering crowd at the historic Strand Theater. 'Let's show her the door. She's not welcome here anymore,' AOC said on the stage nearly 300 miles away from her own district in The Bronx and Queens. Stefanik — whose ambassador nomination was yanked by President Trump because he was worried a Dem could fill her House seat — is now running for governor. Advertisement 4 Rep. Elise Stefanik leaving a House Republican Conference meeting with President Donald Trump on the budget reconciliation bill. CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images 'AOC and [Dem North Country Rep.] Paul Tonko may love trying to tax and spend their own constituents to death, but that doesn't mean they should come to the North Country and peddle the same, tired failing Democrat agenda,' Plattsburgh state Sen. Dan Stec (R-Warren) told The Post. 'Rather than continuing to spread disinformation and fearmongering over President Trump's historically significant legislative achievement, they should be telling Kathy Hochul and legislative Democrats to rein in Albany's bloated state budget,' he said. Other top GOPers laughed off Ocasio-Cortez's visit. Advertisement 4 Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez at a House Committee meeting on Capitol Hill on May 13, 2025. Getty Images 'As usual, AOC is beyond parody. Unlike AOC, a suburbanite cosplaying as a girl from The Bronx, Elise Stefanik is actually from her district,' a rep for the New York Republican Committee told The Post — taking a jab at Ocasio-Cortez for famously claiming to be a 'Bronx girl' in a recent spat with Trump even though she grew up in Westchester County. 'The North County is Elise Country, and it's Trump Country – and it'll stay that way,' the GOP representative said. AOC, dressed in a white button down shirt and black cuffed pants for the event, professed to love the Adirondacks and claimed she was an avid backpacker. Advertisement 4 Rep. Elise Stefanik speaking at a House Committee hearing at Capitol Hill on July 15, 2025. AP 'The Republican Party will never recover from this,' Erie County GOP Chair Michael Kracker quipped on X. A rep for Stefanik, asked by The Post if she had any response to AOC saying she's not welcome in her own district, said in a statement, 'Thank you for the political gift of a radical Far Left Socialist's visit to the North Country. 'It's like pouring jet fuel on Elise Stefanik's strong support in Upstate New York,' the statement read. The event was co-hosted by Tonko, who hailed his colleague 'Alex' as a figurehead of the Democratic party. 'They say, 'Well, she's the future of the party.' I say, 'She's the today of the party,' ' Tonko said.
