The Biden Administration announced its plan to move forward in providing temporary ID cards to undocumented immigrants awaiting their status decision. The pilot program is intended to improve inconsistent paper forms and reduce administrative inefficiencies that agencies are facing.
The White House plans to begin implementing a pilot program, to identify and assist undocumented immigrants, called the “ICE Secure Docket Card” program. Immigrants seeking asylum may be granted temporary ID cards to gain better access to resources as they await their final decisions. If the proposal is successful, immigrants will be able to receive healthcare, housing, and transportation. This program will also provide immigrants with better access to their immigration paperwork and documentation. The secured card will contain biographic data, a photo, and “edge-cutting” security features, as to ensure that it is used properly.
While specific details have yet to be disclosed, the program would generally provide I.D. cards to migrants not currently in a detention center. Those who entered the U.S. illegally, via the U.S. – Mexico border or others, would be granted an I.D. card without lengthy immigration or removal court proceedings. The card is likely to include a QR code that would allow cardholders access to their documents via an app, which could help with the rising number of FOIA requests. If approved by Congress, the card would make traveling through TSA easier.
A similar program has been implemented at the local level in New York City since 2015. The card was made accessible to all New Yorkers, regardless of immigration status. The city sought to expand the program, allowing non-citizens to partake in local elections. However, the law was stuck down. The card program continues to exist successfully in New York City, however.
The Biden Administration will need Congressional approval before September in order to begin implementation. This is in consideration of the 2022 mid-term election, where Republican may gain a majority in the House or the Senate.
Currently, 1.75 million undocumented immigrants have illegally crossed the border. This number comes with three months remaining in the fiscal year, already surpassing the total for 2021.
ILBSG continues to monitor all immigration-related updates. To ensure you get the right advice for your specific situation, contact us. We are with you through it all.