Since the start of President Trump’s second term, immigration authorities including the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (USCIS) are expanding immigration enforcement efforts. One major change is the increase of removals of Green Card Holders, with those suspected of having connections to terrorist organizations being a primary target. However, recent removals of green card holders have been for much more minor offenses.
The DHS enlisted the FBI and other law enforcement agencies to conduct welfare checks on migrant children. The Trump administration states the effort protects migrant children from human trafficking. Advocates worry the welfare checks could be used as a way of deporting migrant children or their sponsors.
Recently, 31-year-old Alfredo Orellana, a green card holder, was removed. Orellana, a caregiver for adults with low-functioning autism, was detained due to an outstanding fee of $200. The fee was part of his sentence for a robbery committed eight years ago.
Immigration agents received guidance aimed at determining if migrant children are trafficked over the border. Advocates argue that most migrant children have been reunited with their parents or other relatives after crossing. This move is the latest in a slew of efforts to give immigration agents greater ability to identify migrant children. President Trump has repeatedly criticized the Biden administration for not taking the same steps to ensure migrant children were not being exploited. Many have criticized the expansion of immigration enforcement efforts an attempt by the President to deliver more deportation, a major promise during his reelection campaign.
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.
