Trump admin lays out new approach to illegal immigration
On August 26, 2019, the Trump Administration released a new approach to addressing illegal immigration, which includes several key components. The plan, titled "The President's Plan to Address the Border Crisis," aims to address the root causes of illegal immigration, improve border security, and reform the U.S. immigration system.
Here are the key components of the plan:
- Border Security: The plan calls for the construction of a physical barrier along the U.S.-Mexico border, as well as the deployment of additional personnel, technology, and infrastructure to enhance border security.
- Asylum Reform: The plan proposes changes to the asylum process, including the creation of "safe third country" agreements with countries in Central America, which would require asylum seekers to apply for asylum in the first safe country they enter, rather than the United States.
- Migrant Protection Protocols: The plan would require asylum seekers to wait in Mexico while their claims are processed, rather than being released into the United States.
- Public Charge Rule: The plan would expand the definition of "public charge" to include individuals who have received certain public benefits, such as Medicaid, food stamps, and housing assistance, making it more difficult for them to obtain a green card or become a U.S. citizen.
- Worksite Enforcement: The plan would increase worksite enforcement, including the use of E-Verify, a system that checks the employment eligibility of new hires, and the prosecution of employers who hire undocumented workers.
- Merit-Based Immigration: The plan would shift the focus of the U.S. immigration system from family-based immigration to a merit-based system, which would prioritize high-skilled workers and those with advanced degrees.
- Addressing the Root Causes of Migration: The plan would provide assistance to countries in Central America to address the root causes of migration, including poverty, violence, and corruption.
- Increased Funding: The plan would request increased funding for border security, immigration enforcement, and humanitarian assistance.
The plan has been met with both praise and criticism. Supporters argue that it would help to address the crisis at the U.S.-Mexico border and reduce the number of illegal immigrants entering the country. Critics argue that it is overly harsh and would harm vulnerable populations, including asylum seekers and families.
It's worth noting that the plan is still a proposal and has not yet been implemented. The Trump Administration has faced legal challenges and opposition from Congress and other stakeholders, and it remains to be seen how the plan will ultimately be received and implemented.