The Biden administration is set to introduce a new rule aimed at expediting the asylum claims process for certain migrants, signaling a potential shift in border policy. The proposed rule, which will be announced by the Department of Homeland Security on Thursday, targets migrants with criminal records or those who would likely be deemed ineligible for asylum in the United States.
Currently, migrants who pass an initial screening for “credible fear” at the border can proceed with the asylum process, even if they have a criminal background or pose a security risk. However, under the new rule, officers at the initial screening stage would have the authority to determine eligibility, bypassing the need for a judge to make the decision.
While the proposal is expected to impact only a small number of migrants, immigration advocates have expressed concerns about potential changes to the asylum process. They argue that migrants often undergo initial interviews immediately after perilous journeys to the U.S. and may not have adequate legal representation to prepare for the process.
The Biden administration is also facing pressure from Democrats and immigrant rights advocates to provide relief for immigrants already in the U.S. Janet MurguÃa, president of UnidosUS, met with Biden to push for support for immigrants without legal status who have been in the country for years.
As the administration considers broader executive actions on immigration, the proposed rule reflects a potential shift in approach to border policy under the Biden administration. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.