Homeland Security Reverses Biden-Era Migrant Flight Policy: CBP One App Discontinued
Introduction
In a significant reversal of immigration policy, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has terminated the use of the controversial CBP One app for migrant boarding of domestic flights, except in cases of self-deportation. This action marks a departure from the Biden administration’s approach, which allowed migrants to board planes within the US without identification, raising concerns about national security and illegal immigration.
The Biden-Era Policy
Under President Biden, the CBP One app was expanded to facilitate the entry of migrants into the US at ports of entry or through a parole process. Migrants could upload their information, including a photograph, onto the app. The app was also accessible by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to verify migrant identities through photo matching with DHS records and biometric analysis. Verified migrants received additional physical screening.
The Noem Policy Reversal
Secretary Noem’s policy change discontinues the use of the CBP One app at airport screening checkpoints and the TSA’s National Transportation Vetting Center. Moreover, migrants who were paroled or released into the US pending immigration proceedings are prohibited from air travel unless they present TSA-accepted identification or are self-deporting.
Background
The allowance of migrants to board flights without identification predates the Biden administration. However, the widespread use of the CBP One app for identity verification has become a concern for law enforcement and national security experts. Critics argue that it undermines border security and allows undocumented migrants to travel freely within the US, potentially facilitating criminal activity or avoiding immigration enforcement.
Trump Administration Actions
President Trump, upon taking office, ordered the immediate discontinuation of the CBP One app for paroling migrants into the US. His administration also paused applications for parole programs and authorized ICE to revoke the parole status of certain migrants. Additionally, Secretary Noem recently reversed a Biden-era extension of Temporary Protected Status for Haitians and canceled a similar extension for Venezuelans.
Immigration Crackdown
The Noem policy reversal and other recent actions by the Trump administration reflect a broader crackdown on illegal immigration and unauthorized entry into the US. The administration has deployed additional resources to the southern border, imposed stricter asylum restrictions, and implemented policies aimed at deterring individuals from seeking asylum or entering the country illegally.
Deputizing State Department Officials
As part of its efforts to strengthen immigration enforcement, Secretary Noem has authorized up to 600 State Department officials to act as immigration officers. This move is intended to increase the capacity for enforcing immigration laws and facilitating the processing of migrants.
Conclusion
The termination of the CBP One app for migrant boarding of domestic flights is a significant policy shift that reflects a shift towards increased border security and enforcement of immigration laws. This action is part of a broader crackdown on illegal immigration and unauthorized entry into the US under the Trump administration, which is implementing measures to deter individuals from seeking asylum or entering the country illegally.
