The Biden administration is currently deliberating on the possibility of taking unilateral action to tighten asylum rules for illegal immigrants and streamline deportations, bypassing the need for congressional approval.
This move follows a recent request by the administration for emergency powers from Congress to enhance border security measures.
Sources familiar with the matter, as reported by NBC News, have indicated that while discussions are ongoing, a final decision may still be weeks away. Implementing these proposed policies to curb the influx of immigration at the border would require additional time.
Previously, the Biden administration had urged Congress to pass a comprehensive border funding bill, linking it to other foreign aid provisions before considering significant actions to address illegal immigration at the southern border.
Criticism arose when the administration sought expanded executive authority to bolster border security measures. House Speaker Mike Johnson, during an appearance on Meet the Press in February, argued against granting additional powers, asserting that the administration already possessed sufficient authority to address border issues.
Should the administration proceed with the plan under consideration, several modifications to current protocols would be enacted. Notably, asylum officers would be directed to heighten the threshold for entry during initial screenings, referred to as "credible fear interviews." Additionally, Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials would be instructed to adopt a "last in, first out" approach, prioritizing the deportation of recent entrants.
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