Migrant Protection Protocols Explained
Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP) sounds like a policy that would benefit immigrants coming to the United States. However, in reality, the Trump-era policy creates undue burdens on people looking to enter the United States legally. In a statement, the federal government acknowledged the program“impos[ed] substantial and unjustifiable human costs on migrants who were exposed to harm while waiting in Mexico,” as well as these difficulties for asylum seekers to access counsel.
What Are The Migrant Protection Protocols?
The Migrant Protection Protocols called for the United States to send certain citizens and nationals of countries (other than Mexico) to Mexico if they arrived in the U.S. by land while these peoples’ U.S. removal proceedings were pending. So, for example, anyone from a South American country that made their way through Mexico to the United States border without proper documentation would be sent back to Mexico pending their proceedings.
Where Do the Migrant Protection Protocols Stand Now?
In June 2021, The Biden Administration tried to end the Migrant Protection Protocols; however, the state of Texas sued, hoping to continue the program. As a result, a nationwide injunction ensued. The program continued during litigation, and the Fifth Circuit lifted the injunction, so the program is over for now. However, the confusing ending has resulted in some judges initially denying venue changes for immigration hearings because “it wasn’t clear whether migrants released from the program would be allowed to enter the U.S.” According to the Department of Homeland Security’s website, “individuals are no longer being newly enrolled in MPP, and individuals currently in MPP in Mexico will be disenrolled when they return for their next court date. Individuals disenrolled from MPP will continue their removal proceedings in the United States.”
What Should I Do If I Have Questions About My Immigration Status?
If you have questions about your immigration status or any upcoming or pending hearings, contact Fay Grafton & Nunez immediately. We offer $200 flat-fee consultations to prospective immigration clients to help you understand your chances and set you up for the best immigration hearings possible.
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