Response to Biden’s Border Policy Announcement

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The following is a statement from Jennie Murray, President and CEO of the National Immigration Forum, following President Biden’s speech on border security today and the administration’s release of updated border policies:

"First and foremost, it’s helpful that the president is facing challenges at the border head-on. Today’s announcement has some positive steps — many of which we’ve called for — but some concerns remain.

"Increasing the use of humanitarian parole will help contribute to a more orderly process at the border, as will expanded legal alternatives for those seeking humanitarian protection. We also are glad to see more resources and personnel being put in place to improve border processing.

"We have significant concerns as well. The proposed rulemaking that would implement a transit ban for many traveling through third countries is extremely problematic, as is the continued reliance on Title 42. People of limited means will continue to have difficulty accessing humanitarian parole, as has been the case for Venezuelans. We also hope the administration will consider increasing the cap on humanitarian parole visas if circumstances warrant it.

"Ultimately, the president and Congress still need to work together to adopt much-needed immigration reforms — including, but not limited to, the border — to solve the challenges we face."

Forum policy experts are available to discuss the new policies in greater detail. Contact Dan Gordon.

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