ICE Faces Budget Shortfall, May Release Thousands Of Migrants From Centers

 

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U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) faces a budget shortfall that could force the release of thousands of migrants held in long-term detention centers. ICE detains migrants who cross the southern border illegally or who have been charged or convicted of crimes.

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Currently, ICE detains over 38,000 immigrants. The Biden administration requested additional funding from Congress to support ICE operations like deportations and detention beds. However, Republicans blocked these funds, arguing the proposed border policies were not strict enough.

Without more money, ICE may need to release between 4,000–6,000 migrants from detention. This decision has yet to be finalized, and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which oversees ICE, could potentially divert other funds to cover the deficit.

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But a DHS spokesperson said scaling back ICE operations would significantly impact border security, national security, and public safety.

The budget issue also challenges Biden’s aim of reducing unlawful crossings. While such crossings dropped 50% in January, they started rising in February and are projected to climb further this spring.

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Limited resources would also hurt other functions like border surveillance technology and processing immigration benefits.

Additionally, a program providing cities/groups housing migrants released from DHS custody has exhausted its funding. Some Republicans object further allocations, arguing this encourages illegal immigration.

The potential migrant release sparks both hope and uncertainty. It offers detained migrants possible freedom but it’s unclear if releases will actually happen given efforts to find alternative monies. Questions also surround the futures of asylum seekers found ineligible for refuge in America. Likewise, constraints endanger the broader immigration system. While a glimmer of hope exists, the situation remains unclear for those still detained.