Immigration bill would bring relief to Venezuelans

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housands of Venezuelans who fled to South Florida and other states before 2013 could become permanent legal residents under legislation proposed by several Florida members of Congress. Many Venezuelans cannot return to their homeland because of fear of persecution by a dictatorial government, the bill's sponsors say. The bipartisan bill would bring long-sought relief to large numbers of Venezuelans who have settled in South Florida, many in Weston and Doral. "In the last few months alone we have seen countless examples of the [Venezuelan] regime's thuggish tactics, unethical behavior and lethal force," said Rep. Carlos Curbelo, R-Kendall, citing the arrests of top opposition leaders. "They've also arrested over 3,000 opposition protesters in a riot that left dozens dead." More…