Many Central Americans fleeing violence and economic crisis are looking toward countries like Belgium, Italy and Spain for refuge instead of the United States. The distance may be greater, but many find the journey is safer and cheaper than paying smugglers to travel through Mexico. They also believe European authorities are more tolerant. [NYTimes]
Topping the news: In what could spark yet another abortion law battle, state Rep. Jennifer Dailey-Provost seeks to change part of a new law that allows abortion after 18 weeks in cases of rape — but only if the rape had been reported to law enforcement.