The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is terminating the parole protections for people who entered the country through the Biden-era CBP One app. This action could remove the legal status of approximately 985,000 individuals who used the app to make appointments to enter the country. The DHS explained the large amount of CBP One users was the result of the Biden administration’s misuse of the app.
DHS secretary Noem explained that the Biden administration abused the parole authority of the CBP One app, which contributed to the crisis at the southern border. Secretary Noem further clarified that the removal of parole protections is a key aspect of securing the southern border, a key promise during Trump’s re-election campaign. This move is the latest in a series of measures to tighten immigration enforcement measures to fulfill that promise.
Previously, the DHS and the Trump administration terminated programs that grant legal status to migrants from Haiti, Nicaragua, Venezuela, and Cuba. Venezuelans especially have been the main target of many of these measures. Supporters if the Trump administration’s efforts have argued the tremendous national security risks posed by the large amounts of arrivals that occurred during Biden’s presidency.
Critics of the decision argue the Trump administration is eroding the rule of law to fulfill promises to its voters. Further, critics state one president doesn’t have the power to retroactively invalidate the legal entries of thousands of individuals. The group challenges the legality of the action.
The DHS and the Trump administration began sending email notices to affected CBP One users migrants telling them to self-deport through the Trump administration’s version of the app, now called CBP Home. Notably, excluded from this change are those who entered the country as part of the Uniting for Ukraine program or Afghans who entered under Operation Allies Welcome.
As always, ILBSG actively monitors ongoing U.S. immigration news. If you have questions about any U.S. immigration related issue, contact us. Working with an experienced attorney ensures you get the right advice based on the most recent laws. In an ever-evolving immigration policy landscape, it’s particularly critical.
