Real IT travel concerns among the undocumented community

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — Jesus Pineda has lived in the United States since he was 15 years old.

He is a farmer in the Central Valley who has been trying to become a legal resident since 1993.

The Department of Homeland Security, or DHS, plans to require real ID for air travel within the United States.

To secure one, you must provide proof of citizenship or legal residency.

However, undocumented people can travel with a passport from their country of birth.

For Jesus, he fears this will increase the risk of being picked up by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE.

“We’re going to suffer as a community in general, and now we’re going to be targeted because our documents are no longer valid.” Jesus says.

On Monday, DHS extended the Real ID deadline to May 2025.

Jesus—a national Latino farmer and rancher advocate—also travels to Washington DC.

When the deadline expires – it will be difficult for him to continue his advocacy work.

“Yes, it frustrates me but motivates me to keep working,” explains Jesus.

Fresno attorney, Joshua Longoria, has been practicing immigration law for 5 years.

He is a Dinuba native and the actual ID requirements may scare off some travelers, affecting local economies.

“I know there are a lot of people affected by this, and my main concern is what kind of restrictions are in place on individuals here, but it’s unclear how much of a financial impact this will have because of the uncertainty.” Joshua says.

The Real ID Act was passed in Congress in 2005 on the recommendation of the 9/11 Commission.

It’s about making sure people are what they say they are.