Biden administration plans to propose tougher rules for asylum seekers

SAN YSIDRO, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) — The Biden administration plans to announce a new rule Thursday that would tighten up the screening process for asylum seekers at the border.

After Title 42 expired in May 2023, approximately 80,000 migrants have arrived through San Diego, according to the county board of supervisors.

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Under current federal law, a migrant who arrives at the border and passes an initial screening, otherwise known as a “credible fear interview,” is granted temporary entry even if he/she may have a criminal background or would pose a security risk.

The initial screening by border officers is done solely to determine whether migrants have a credible fear. For specific information regarding what could be considered a credible fear, visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website.

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If an asylum seeker is allowed entry, a judge will then determine whether the migrant would be eligible for asylum after looking further into the individual’s background.

The Biden administration is also considering executive actions that would make it easier for longtime undocumented immigrants to fix their status, particularly if they are close relatives of U.S. citizens.

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