Tens of thousands at US border as Title 42 migrant policy ends

Approximately 60,000 people are waiting to cross into the United States from Mexico following the expiration of the pandemic-era border policy known as Title 42. This policy allowed for swift deportations without asylum hearings, citing the Covid-19 pandemic as justification.

President Joe Biden has introduced new rules to replace Title 42 after it ended with the expiration of the national Covid-19 health emergency. The change in policy has caused confusion and uncertainty among migrants, with rumors and misinformation circulating.

The end of Title 42 has led to a surge in attempted border crossings, with around 10,000 people crossing each day, the highest levels on record. Authorities and humanitarian organizations in cities like El Paso, Texas, are preparing for a potential increase in attempted crossings. The mayor of El Paso estimated that approximately 10,000 migrants were waiting in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, for an opportunity to cross into the city.

Local organizations that provide assistance to migrants, such as food banks and shelters, are bracing for the impact of increased arrivals. They are stocking up on supplies and preparing for a potential influx of migrants into their communities. Border Patrol custody facilities are already overwhelmed, with about 25,000 migrants in custody, surpassing the agency’s capacity.

In an effort to manage the situation, officials had planned to release migrants and instruct them to report to an immigration office within 60 days. However, this plan was blocked by a federal judge in Florida. The Biden administration is expected to appeal the decision. The lifting of Title 42 is expected to become a contentious political issue in the United States, with House Republicans considering immigration bills. However, passing such legislation in the Democratic-controlled Senate is unlikely.

Overall, the end of Title 42 has triggered a surge in border crossings and raised concerns about the capacity to manage the situation effectively. The United States’ immigration system is in need of reform, but significant differences between Democrats and Republicans on border policy make bipartisan legislation unlikely in the near future.

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