Immigrant Advocates Denounce Updated Asylum Restrictions, Demand President Biden Embrace Humane Solutions

News24USA.Com Desk, New York : Today, President Biden issued an update to his executive action limiting access to asylum at the U.S. southern border. Under the updated regulation, the Biden administration now requires that the number of border crossings between ports of entry remain below 1,500 for 28 consecutive days (as opposed to the previous version of the policy which was for one week) in order for the asylum restrictions to be lifted. Additionally, the daily threshold will now include unaccompanied minors from non-contiguous countries. This policy will go into effect immediately at midnight on October 1, 2024.

Murad Awawdeh, President and CEO, New York Immigration Coalition:
“President Biden’s updated executive action represents a dangerous move away from the United States’ legal and moral obligations to protect vulnerable people fleeing persecution and seeking safety. By extending the asylum restrictions, this administration is guaranteeing that even more individuals at risk – including unaccompanied minors – will be denied the chance to seek refuge in our country. This policy is a betrayal of the humanitarian values that are crucial to the very concept of America. Instead of embracing our role as a beacon of hope, the U.S. is choosing to close its doors to people in need of rebuilding their lives. Biden and Congress must create safe and legal immigration pathways, and prioritize humane, fair, and efficient access to asylum for everyone. This involves developing policies that address the urgent needs of our newest arrivals and long-established immigrants while also offering compassionate and balanced long-term solutions for southern border management.”
Background
In June 2024, President Biden signed an executive action limiting access to asylum at the U.S. southern border once the seven-day average of people crossing between ports of entry exceeds 1,500. The measure resulted in a temporary closure of the U.S. southern border to many people seeking safety, absent exceptional circumstances. Press Release.