The U.S. House Republicans introduced a proposed bill known as the Secure the Border Act of 2023. The bill incorporates elements from three committees, including the House Homeland Security, Foreign Affairs, and Judiciary committees. The bill adopts a more conservative approach to U.S. immigration and seeks to address immigration at the southern border.
The proposed bill includes a higher credible fear standard for asylum seekers requiring individuals to demonstrate that they are more likely than not to qualify for asylum. The current standard only requires asylum seekers to prove a significant likelihood they will qualify.
The bill also seeks to limit the President’s ability to utilize parole programs and proposes to detain unaccompanied minors for up to 30 days. Additionally, resurrecting the border wall construction project and renegotiating the Remain in Mexico program are included in the proposed bill.
House Republicans assert that the southern border is not secure, and with the end of Title 42, they expect an influx of migrants. The Biden Administration emphasizes the need for comprehensive immigration reform and proposes the use of technology to improve enforcement. The Biden Administration is also implementing other updates such as opening regional processing centers abroad to minimize dangerous travel to the U.S. border only to be turned away upon arrival.
The Biden Administration currently uses parole programs to facilitate the legal migration of individuals from Venezuela, Haiti, Cuba, Nicaragua, and Ukraine. These programs offer two years of employment authorization and residence in the U.S. The migrants, however, must have sponsors in the U.S. who will provide financial support and assistance during their transition. Under the proposed bill, these programs will be significantly limited.
ILBSG remains committed to closely monitoring any proposed changes to U.S. immigration policy to ensure our clients receive the most appropriate advice for their situations. If you have any questions or concerns about your immigration status or any other immigration-related issue, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our team of experts is here to assist you and provide you the guidance you need to navigate the complex U.S. immigration system.