Congressman Henry Cuellar recently highlighted the challenges currently faced by the US immigration system, particularly focusing on asylum seekers and parolees.
At the center of these issues appears to be the difficult task of effectively calibrating the asylum process and managing parole. Asylum, as defined under federal law, requires an individual to be persecuted on the basis of nationality, race, politics, religion, or social caste to qualify. It is not intended for those simply seeking job opportunities or a better life.
The Congressman emphasized the need for a balanced approach that ensures law and order at the border while respecting the rights of bona fide asylum seekers. He suggested that individuals who do not meet the defined criteria for asylum should be promptly deported – a measure that would send a clear message and potentially discourage a large influx of asylum seekers.
The Congressman pointed out that there are currently avenues within the existing law to handle the situation, citing Title 8 as an example. This federal law, utilized effectively under the Obama administration, provides for the detention of individuals while their qualifications for asylum are assessed. If the individuals do not meet the criteria, they are swiftly deported. Notably, the Trump administration also deported individuals, but did not use this method as extensively.
Despite the current administration’s continued use of deportations, it has been suggested that they are not doing enough to visibly demonstrate this action. The result is the perception of loose immigration control which may act as a pull factor, attracting more individuals to attempt the asylum process.
The Congressman also raised the possibility that amendments to the existing asylum law could simplify the process of returning individuals to their home countries. He concluded by expressing hope for a resolution to the immigration dilemma in the near future. Experts in legal and immigration matters will be watching closely for further developments.
