#DHS Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas

[minnesotafollower]

Biden Administration’s New Restrictions on U.S. Asylum Law Being Challenged in Federal Courts 

This year has seen many developments regarding the Biden Administration’s attempts to cope with the large numbers of migrants illegally crossing the U.S.-Mexico border. Here is a review of some of those developments. Biden’s New Asylum Regulation[1] On February 21, the Biden Administration announced a proposed rule that would  require rapid deportation of an immigrant at the U.S. border who had…

[oipolinternacional]

Joint Statement Colombia, United States and Panamá: Trilateral on Irregular Migration

OIPOL & OIJUST Operating in USA / Statement by The Department of Homeland Security (DHS). August 26, 2024. Cooperation and edition Oipol & Oijust. September 01, 2024.-  Cartagena de Indias, August 26th, 2024. The Colombian Minister of Foreign Affairs Luis Gilberto Murillo, the United States Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas, and the Panamanian Minister of Foreign Affairs Javier…

[thxnews]

Lyft and DHS Team Up Against Human Trafficking

A Landmark Collaboration

In a significant move to combat human trafficking, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Blue Campaign has joined forces with Lyft, Inc. Moreover, this pioneering partnership introduces a tutorial program designed to empower rideshare drivers across the United States and Canada with the knowledge to detect and prevent human trafficking. Additionally, this collaboration marks a first-of-its-kind initiative, with Lyft featuring the Blue Campaign’s resources within its driver-only in-app Learning Center.  

The Power of Education and Awareness

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas emphasized the necessity of a unified effort to illuminate the dark world of human trafficking. Moreover, the new partnership with Lyft underscores the importance of private sector engagement and targeted training in the fight against this crime. Furthermore, Lyft drivers, who interact with millions of passengers annually, will now be equipped to identify potential trafficking situations and take steps to disrupt these activities effectively.   Lyft's Commitment to Safety Echoing the sentiment, Lyft CEO David Risher highlighted the company's zero-tolerance policy towards human trafficking. David Risher said: “Human trafficking — the illegal exploitation of a person — is a heinous crime. We have zero tolerance for it,” “We're proud to partner with DHS's Blue Campaign to raise awareness on the issue, so the one million people who drive on the Lyft platform can recognize and report it when they see it.”  

Super Bowl 2024

As a major activation of this partnership, Lyft will alert drivers in the Las Vegas area during Super Bowl 2024. This effort is particularly crucial during large events, where the risk of human trafficking can increase due to the influx of people and the anonymity provided by such gatherings. Through timely education and awareness, Lyft aims to mitigate these risks and safeguard vulnerable individuals.   The Blue Campaign The Campaign, run by the DHS Center for Countering Human Trafficking (CCHT), serves as a national public awareness campaign. Its mission is to educate the public, law enforcement, and industry partners on recognizing human trafficking indicators and responding appropriately. Additionally, this partnership with Lyft expands the campaign’s reach, furthering its mission to prevent human trafficking and protect victims.

A Unified Front Against Human Trafficking

This collaboration between Lyft and the DHS Blue Campaign represents a critical step forward in the global fight against human trafficking. By harnessing the collective power of government initiatives and private sector resources, this partnership aims to create a safer environment for all. Moreover, through education, awareness, and action, Lyft drivers are now at the forefront of detecting and preventing human trafficking, showcasing how community involvement can make a significant impact.   Sources: THX News & US Department of Homeland Security. Read the full article

[npi]

House Republicans laughably fail to impeach DHS Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas

An attempt by Republicans to use the people’s House as a venue for bringing baseless accusations of misconduct against member of President Joe Biden’s cabinet fell apart spectacularly today when Democratic Representative Al Green showed up to torpedo Speaker Mike Johnson’s vote on impeaching Alejandro N. Mayorkas, the current Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. Green, D-Texas,…

[jcmarchi]

DHS AI roadmap prioritises cybersecurity and national safety

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/dhs-ai-roadmap-prioritises-cybersecurity-and-national-safety/

DHS AI roadmap prioritises cybersecurity and national safety

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The Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has launched its inaugural Roadmap for AI.

Viewed as a crucial step in the broader governmental effort to ensure the secure development and implementation of AI capabilities, the move aligns with President Biden’s recent Executive Order.

“DHS has a broad leadership role in advancing the responsible use of AI and this cybersecurity roadmap is one important element of our work,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas.

“The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to building a secure and resilient digital ecosystem that promotes innovation and technological progress.” 

Following the Executive Order, DHS is mandated to globally promote AI safety standards, safeguard US networks and critical infrastructure, and address risks associated with AI—including potential use “to create weapons of mass destruction”.

“In last month’s Executive Order, the President called on DHS to promote the adoption of AI safety standards globally and help ensure the safe, secure, and responsible use and development of AI,” added Mayorkas.

“CISA’s roadmap lays out the steps that the agency will take as part of our Department’s broader efforts to both leverage AI and mitigate its risks to our critical infrastructure and cyber defenses.”

CISA’s roadmap outlines five strategic lines of effort, providing a blueprint for concrete initiatives and a responsible approach to integrating AI into cybersecurity.

CISA Director Jen Easterly highlighted the dual nature of AI, acknowledging its promise in enhancing cybersecurity while acknowledging the immense risks it poses.

“Artificial Intelligence holds immense promise in enhancing our nation’s cybersecurity, but as the most powerful technology of our lifetimes, it also presents enormous risks,” commented Easterly.

“Our Roadmap for AI – focused at the nexus of AI, cyber defense, and critical infrastructure – sets forth an agency-wide plan to promote the beneficial uses of AI to enhance cybersecurity capabilities; ensure AI systems are protected from cyber-based threats; and deter the malicious use of AI capabilities to threaten the critical infrastructure Americans rely on every day.”

The outlined lines of effort are as follows:

Responsibly use AI to support our mission: CISA commits to using AI-enabled tools ethically and responsibly to strengthen cyber defense and support its critical infrastructure mission. The adoption of AI will align with constitutional principles and all relevant laws and policies.

Assess and Assure AI systems: CISA will assess and assist in secure AI-based software adoption across various stakeholders, establishing assurance through best practices and guidance for secure and resilient AI development.

Protect critical infrastructure from malicious use of AI: CISA will evaluate and recommend mitigation of AI threats to critical infrastructure, collaborating with government agencies and industry partners. The establishment of JCDC.AI aims to facilitate focused collaboration on AI-related threats.

Collaborate and communicate on key AI efforts: CISA commits to contributing to interagency efforts, supporting policy approaches for the US government’s national strategy on cybersecurity and AI, and coordinating with international partners to advance global AI security practices.

Expand AI expertise in our workforce: CISA will educate its workforce on AI systems and techniques, actively recruiting individuals with AI expertise and ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the legal, ethical, and policy aspects of AI-based software systems.

“This is a step in the right direction. It shows the government is taking the potential threats and benefits of AI seriously. The roadmap outlines a comprehensive strategy for leveraging AI to enhance cybersecurity, protect critical infrastructure, and foster collaboration. It also emphasises the importance of security in AI system design and development,” explains Joseph Thacker, AI and security researcher at AppOmni.

“The roadmap is pretty comprehensive. Nothing stands out as missing initially, although the devil is in the details when it comes to security, and even more so when it comes to a completely new technology. CISA’s ability to keep up may depend on their ability to get talent or train internal folks. Both of those are difficult to accomplish at scale.”

CISA invites stakeholders, partners, and the public to explore the Roadmap for Artificial Intelligence and gain insights into the strategic vision for AI technology and cybersecurity here.

(Photo by Oliver Günther on Unsplash)

See also: Google expands partnership with Anthropic to enhance AI safety

Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with Cyber Security & Cloud Expo and Digital Transformation Week.

Explore other upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForge here.

Tags: ai roadmap, artificial intelligence, cisa, cyber security, cybersecurity, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, dhs, ethics, homeland security, roadmap for ai, safety, security, Society

[mystlnewsonline]

DHS Actions - Keep Forced Labor Out of US Supply Chain

Department of Homeland Security announced actions to keep forced labor practices out of the U.S. supply chain. WASHINGTON, DC (STL.News) Friday, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced new actions to keep forced labor practices out of the U.S. supply chain.  The interagency Forced Labor Enforcement Task Force (FLETF), led by DHS, added two People’s Republic of China (PRC)-based companies to the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA) Entity List.  Effective June 12, 2023, goods produced by Xinjiang Zhongtai Chemical Co., Ltd. and Ninestar Corporation and eight of its Zhuhai-based subsidiaries will be restricted from entering the United States as a result of the companies’ participation in business practices that target members of persecuted groups, including Uyghur minorities in the PRC. The UFLPA, signed into law by President Biden in December 2021, prohibits goods from being imported into the United States that are either produced in Xinjiang or by entities identified on the UFLPA Entity List unless the importer can prove, by clear and convincing evidence, the goods were not produced with forced labor.  With today’s announcement, 22 Chinese companies are currently designated to the UFLPA Entity List.  U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) began enforcing the UFLPA in June 2022.  In the first year of enforcement, CBP reviewed more than 4,000 shipments valued at over $1.3 billion under the new law. “This Administration is committed to eradicating forced labor from U.S. supply chains and will do so while facilitating legitimate trade and strengthening the U.S. economy,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas. “Our Department will not tolerate governments abusing human rights and will continue to restrict all goods at our ports of entry that use materials or workers from the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region where the People’s Republic of China aggressively oppresses and exploits Uyghurs and other Muslim-majority communities.” In June 2022, DHS released the Strategy to Prevent the Importation of Goods Mined, Produced, or Manufactured with Forced Labor in the People’s Republic of China.  The DHS Office of Strategy, Policy, and Plans; CBP; and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) are leading the Department’s efforts to change importers’ behavior and hold perpetrators accountable for egregious forced labor abuses.  The FLETF —which also includes the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative and the U.S. Departments of Labor, State, the Treasury, Justice, and Commerce— will continue to revise the UFLPA Entity List.  DHS will post these revisions and publish the revised UFLPA Entity List as an appendix to a Federal Register notice. “The Forced Labor Enforcement Task Force will continue to hold companies accountable for perpetuating human rights violations in Xinjiang,” said the Chair of the Forced Labor Enforcement Task Force, Under Secretary for Policy Robert Silvers.  “The use of forced labor offends our values and undercuts American businesses and workers.  Forced labor is now a top-tier compliance issue, and businesses must know their supply chains.  DHS and the Forced Labor Enforcement Task Force will continue their vigilant approach to implementing the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.” SOURCE: U.S. Department of Homeland Security Read the full article

[darlenefblog]

The lawsuit over Harry's visa is still in the works.

Biden admin ordered to turn over Prince Harry's immigration records amid preferential treatment claim.

A federal judge on Tuesday gave the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) one week to deal with requests for Prince Harry's immigration records after the agency was sued by the Heritage Foundation.

The Biden administration appeared in a federal court Tuesday after the conservative think tank filed a lawsuit demanding DHS release Prince Harry's immigration records, alleging the administration gave him "preferential treatment" in allowing entry to the U.S. 

The suit claimed that the Biden administration allowed the prince to enter the U.S. despite his admission of illegal drug use – a factor that would usually be enough to deny other people entry. 

Entities within DHS, including Border Patrol, denied the group's Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests for the documents, but DHS headquarters had yet to make a decision on the requests.

D.C. District Court Judge Carl Nichols gave DHS until June 13 to notify the court on whether it will expedite or respond to a request for the records.

Heritage filed the original FOIA requests for the documents following the release of Prince Harry's bestselling memoir, "Spare," in which he admitted to using cocaine, psychedelics and marijuana.

When filling out a visa application, those drug abuses are supposed to be documented in detail, and would normally trigger a special review if not rejection of the application. However, the group is suspicious that Prince Harry was either not honest on his visa application, or that the Biden administration gave him preferential treatment.

DHS entities rejected the original FOIA request, citing privacy concerns for the British royal, who moved to Montecito, California, with his wife Meghan Markle in 2020. Lawyers for the agency also leveled that argument in court Tuesday.

Nile Gardiner, director of the foundation’s Margaret Thatcher Center, told Fox News Digital Wednesday the judge's urging of a swift decision from the administration is a "very positive development."

"This matter is being treated very seriously," he said. 

Gardiner said there is "strong public interest for the release of Prince Harry's immigration records, especially in light of his widespread admission and drug use in ‘Spare,’ his memoir."

"We believe that it is important that the public is aware of what he actually put in his immigration application. Did he outline in detail all his drug use as he was supposed to do? We also want to know whether he received any kind of preferential treatment for U.S. officials with regard to his visa application. So if there was any dishonesty on the application, that would be perjury and a criminal offense." he added.

"The situation with Prince Harry's immigration application was that it was, it appears, to have been so fast-tracked, while most people wait many months, years to have their applications process. So it is in the public interest for immigration law to be applied fairly to everyone who applies without a favor or bias and so this is why there is a big public interest here," Gardiner said.

Heritage said in its lawsuit that while this case "focuses on the widespread public and press interest on the specific issue of whether DHS acted, and is acting, appropriately as regards the Duke of Sussex, it cannot be separated from its broader context." 

"The press and congressional hearing rooms are replete with detailed accusations that DHS is deliberately refusing to enforce the country’s immigration laws and is responsible for the current crisis at the border," the lawsuit said.

"[T]he broader controversy is so grave that Articles of Impeachment have been filed against DHS Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas and Secretary Mayorkas has taken the extraordinary step of retaining private counsel to represent him in impeachment proceedings," it said.

[the-firebird69]

WASHINGTON – Today, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas issued a National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS) Bulletin regarding the continued heightened threat environment across the United States. This is the eighth NTAS Bulletin issued by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) since January 2021 and it replaces the current Bulletin that was set to expire at 2:00 PM ET today.

“Recent tragic events highlight the continued heightened threat environment our nation faces, and these threats are driven by violent extremists who seek to further their ideological beliefs and personal grievances,” said Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas. “We are working with partners across every level of government, within the private sector, and in local communities to keep Americans safe. We will continue to share information and intelligence, equip communities with training and resources, and fund security enhancement and prevention efforts through millions of dollars in grant funding.”

Lone offenders and small groups motivated by a range of ideological beliefs and personal grievances continue to pose a persistent threat to the United States. Both domestic violent extremists (DVEs) and those associated with foreign terrorist organizations continue to attempt to motivate supporters to conduct attacks, including through violent extremist messaging and online calls for violence. In the coming months, DHS expects the threat environment to remain heightened and that individuals may be motivated to violence by perceptions of the 2024 general election cycle and legislative or judicial decisions pertaining to sociopolitical issues. U.S. critical infrastructure, faith-based institutions, individuals or events associated with the LGBTQIA+-community, schools, racial and ethnic minorities, and government facilities and personnel are likely targets of potential violence.

DHS works with partners across every level of government, in the private sector, and in local communities to keep Americans safe, providing resources and support, including the following:

DHS and the FBI continue to share timely and actionable information and intelligence with the broadest audience This includes sharing information and intelligence with our partners across every level of government and in the private sector. We conduct recurring threat briefings with private sector, state, local, tribal, territorial, and campus partners, including to inform security planning efforts. DHS remains committed to working with our partners to identify and prevent all forms of targeted violence and terrorism, and to support law enforcement efforts to keep our communities safe.

DHS, in collaboration with its federal partners, launched the Prevention Resource Finder (PRF) website in March 2023. The PRF is a comprehensive web repository of federal resources available to help communities understand, mitigate, and protect themselves from targeted violence and terrorism.

The DHS Center for Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships continues to engage a coalition of faith-based and community organizations, including members of the Faith-based Security Advisory Council (FBSAC), which DHS reconstituted in July 2022, to help build the capacity of faith-based and community organizations seeking to protect their places of worship and community spaces.

DHS’s Office of Intelligence and Analysis (I&A), the FBI, and the National Counterterrorism Center in 2021 jointly updated behavioral indicators of U.S. extremist mobilization to violence. Further, I&A’s National Threat Evaluation and Reporting Program continues to provide tools and resources for federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial partners on preventing terrorism and targeted violence, including online suspicious activity reporting training.

DHS’s Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Intermodal Security Training and Exercise Program (I-STEP) and Exercise Information System (EXIS®) work with government and private sector partners – including owners and operators of critical transportation infrastructure – to enhance security and reduce risks posed by acts of terrorism.

DHS’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) works with government and private sector partners – including owners and operators of critical infrastructure and public gathering places – to enhance security and mitigate risks posed by acts of terrorism and targeted violence through its network of Protective Security Advisors and resources addressing Active Shooters, School Safety, Bombing Prevention, and Soft Targets-Crowded Places.

DHS’s Center for Prevention Programs and Partnerships (CP3) educates and trains stakeholders on how to identify indicators of radicalization to violence, where to seek help, and the resources that are available to prevent targeted violence and In 2022, CP3 awarded about $20 million in grants through its Targeted Violence and Terrorism Prevention (TVTP) Grant Program. To date, over 100 applicants and more than $50 million in grant funds have been requested for the FY23 grant cycle.

In 2021, 2022, and 2023 DHS designated domestic violent extremism as a “National Priority Area” within its Homeland Security Grant Program (HSGP), enabling our partners to access critical funds that help prevent, prepare for, protect against, mitigate, respond to, and recover from related threats.

In 2022, DHS’s Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) provided over $250 million in funding to support target hardening and other physical security enhancements to non-profit organizations at high risk of terrorist attack.

gov consolidates school safety-related resources from across the government. Through this website, the K-12 academic community can also connect with school safety officials and develop school safety plans.

This NTAS Bulletin will expire on November 24, 2023. This NTAS Bulletin provides the public with information about the threat landscape facing the United States, how to stay safe, and resources and tools to help prevent an individual’s radicalization to violence. The public should report any suspicious activity or threats of violence to local law enforcement, FBI Field Offices, or a local Fusion Center.

Read the NTAS Bulletin HERE. 

You know who the director of Homeland security is and he is a morlock. We understand that some of these programs are ridiculous no they're illegal. And they are stating it now and with a repeal of article 42 which actually impeded there ability to get here and it was initialized by Donald Trump and we found him to be a despicable moron cuz he's trying to blame other people for his asinine laws and behavior and restrictions like covid-19 which got a lot of his people killed his clan and his family died doing a job that made no sense because it doesn't make sense and if the board is lacks just last it's not it's not and Tommy F once chaos and stuff and we want to fight the empire and it's a parallel but these people are done you can see these laws and stuff that they enacted and they're here above and we copied them and they are complete idiocy well no they are things they want to use to infiltrate the United States what's your one point was necessary and at this point is not but as our son says it does open the window for foreigners to get in and their method is to threaten Max and using this stuff and they come in and they take the place of the idiots they were harming some of them and it harm their kids grandkids are our Sundays and others like them no they were going to use them and could but these morons ruin it and right now they're a threat to everyone and they won't let commerce work and they won't let things move ahead and even Tommy F says this is way over the top and you people are nuts and they are.

IN CORRELATION TO THE ABOVE WE ARE RESPONDING

1.he DHS is a government agency is not allowed to share information with a private sector even subcontractors. This is an illegal action and they will be arrested and we're going to get on it and Mac is already mobilizing to do so. It also mentions broadcast audience in an attempt to broadcast information on public channels which is illegal

2. This has to make resources available online first off it is an ineffective method people need to be trained they need to have community meetings in order to defend themselves than they are. The information they put in line is usually defective incorrect poorly written copied or actually very illegal and that's what they usually do put on the surface is a method that does practically nothing. Our son tried to file a complaint I was given a runaround on the website and we're going after them for it.

3. It seems I want to concentration on teaching religious groups how to protect their churches in synagogues they want to cause trouble it is odd that they single them out to say that you want to learn how to do that and we do understand what that is they're threatening our facilities and that's what they are we help make them we encourage it we funded some of them no a lot of them over there the whole time making sure they're built correctly and they want to threaten the building and they want to threaten chaos and it really is obvious because they are making it a singled out type event and there's a term for it the police use

4. Their behavioral analysis system is flawed into the wrong people to be performing it. They're targeting people and trying to find people like our son

5. The TSA is an independent organization but yes does fall under Homeland security what they're saying to do doesn't make sense no it does but they want to put their people in and that's the problem you have evil idiots running the TSA but for now we need them there so foreigners can get in because they can't tell the difference

6. Doing their job is identifying weaknesses and showing up security in schools airports public places it shouldn't be here because they should be doing it because they put it here is suspicious it doesn't say they're accelerating it doubling it or adding any personnel or type of organization or international program it just says that's what they're doing so he looked at it and we figured out the verb it says it's going to put their people in they don't necessarily need that but that's what they're intending on doing in a sense as we needed it attracts attention because they're very evil people and the force us to do the job so I'm putting out a new Manning table based on this right now.

7. This item is a Grinch and it's supposed to identify radicals who incite violence and who trained and so forth and it's given to the private sector which is more or less not legal it's supposed to go to police who teach people who are vetted by them no criminal record now we are against this completely and we're against most of it they're going to go ahead with it and we're going to fight it and we're going to take over more items ahead of schedule

8. And this is another Grant item and they're offering it up to train people about domestic violence and it's b******* that's pointing out to people how to do it but they don't identify the right people and we have to be there as our son and daughter say and we're going to man up now and it's one of those organizations we've been going after anyways and very hard and it's going to become much harder these people are a bunch of jerks and they're on the border and they do a lousy job and they're getting kicked out now

9. This is about non-profit organizations and it's stating to make them hardened targets they're talking about homeless shelters and things like that and most of their people are in there they want to force them to do the job or something and they're going to get them killed and we're going to provide the security and we're going to kick them out immediately and they're trying to start this tomorrow and they're going to be surprised a lot of the programs we're going to do ourselves but we have to make sure we're doing it and each and every area is responsible for it but really they want to go after homeless shelters and things like that and try and find people like us and so on and cause chaos and force their people to do stuff but we're going to take over and if they insist we are going to arrest them Non-Stop and Homeland security they have 2% of the agents and it's not enough to do anything but they're going to impersonate agents on Monday some today and we're going to arrest them and find out who the rest are

This is mac and we're going to follow through on this right now this is a high priority and I'm going to Alyssa is that I'm going to make sure this is getting done we don't want to hear that they didn't do anything again and you're doing it later Mac says

10. Providing a website to people in schools does nothing and looking at someone else's safety plan is ridiculous it's a waste of time but we do take it as there are going to be programs for people to do that and we are going to hire tons of agents in macca's to provide plans and it's against the clones and these idiots and

-we appreciate it their time and their effort and we are going to use this against them . Simply put there's a lot of laws that go our way carrying a pistol if you don't have a carry permit but you have to have a license is one of them you're arrested all the time carrying a weapon and you say you have a pistol permit and you do but you're not properly licensed I'm going to find the licenses expired on all of you and our licenses are all good it's hard to get a pistol permit still going to revoke all your pistol permits so we don't have to we changed the law for us because you're stupid you all fall in John arena Lord who has this idiot fan it's written ai and hasn't done anything

Thor Freya

And the ship is in the Saturn's rings and it has all of my clans AI on it

Zues

And the same ship happens all of my clients AI on it and the balls are about 20 miles in diameter that's true they're this huge balls on the mask the heads are about 40 miles high they plan to be that size they're enormous enormous people it's ridiculous something they were and they lost they didn't have enough armament

Hera

We approve this message to be posted here on this site

Olympus

[minnesotafollower]

Biden Administration Announces Proposed Restrictions on Asylum Applications

On February 21, the Biden Administration announced a proposed rule that would  require rapid deportation of an immigrant at the U.S. border who had failed to request protection from another country while en route to the U.S. or who had not previously notified the U.S. via a mobile app of their plan to seek asylum in the U.S. or who had applied for the new U.S. humanitarian parole programs for…

[governmentagencynews]

WASHINGTON – Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the criminal investigative agency within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), conducted a large-scale enforcement action in Guatemala that led to the execution of 20 arrest warrants and 54 search warrants in Guatemala City, Oct. 24-25. Huehuetenango, and Quetzaltenango, Guatemala. HSI Guatemala executed the operation in conjunction with the HSI Transnational Criminal Investigative Unit (TCIU) and Guatemalan authorities.These enforcement actions resulted in the arrest of 24 Guatemalan nationals for violations of Guatemalan law concerning human smuggling and the seizure of US$156,882 and other contraband, as well as the rescue of 70 undocumented migrants of Ecuadorian, Nicaraguan, Salvadoran, and Venezuelan nationality from numerous hotels in Guatemala City. Of the 24 Guatemalan nationals arrested, seven were Guatemalan police officers who facilitated human smuggling as part of the illegal smuggling network. These officers were arrested by the Guatemalan National Police’s (PNC) Internal Affairs Unit for their complicity in the criminal enterprise under investigation. The arrested officers are not members of the TCIU. “The enforcement actions we are taking against the vicious smuggling organizations that prey upon vulnerable individuals are unprecedent in their scope and scale,” said Alejandro N. Mayorkas, the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. “This takedown by our Homeland Security Investigations is a powerful example of the thousands of actions we have taken to date. Our efforts are in partnership with other departments in the federal government and, critically, through increased collaboration with our foreign partners as well.” “Our special agents will continue to be relentless in their pursuit of dismantling transnational criminal organizations seeking to profit from this type of enterprise with zero regard for human life,” said U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Acting Director Tae D. Johnson. “Human smuggling is an abhorrent crime, and HSI will keep exhausting every resource available to bring perpetrators to justice.” In May 2021, HSI initiated an investigation with international partners into three Guatemalan human smuggling networks operating across the Guatemalan/Salvadoran border. Continuing to work with the TCIU and Guatemalan authorities to disrupt and dismantle regional human smuggling networks, HSI Guatemala’s investigation led to the identification of an additional two human smuggling networks using six hotels in Guatemala City for similar smuggling operations. In April 2022, DHS launched a first-of-its-kind effort, unprecedented in scale, to disrupt and dismantle human smuggling networks. This $60 million campaign has resulted in the arrest of over 5,000 smugglers and disruption of more than 5,500 smuggling operations over the past six months. This work includes raiding stash houses, impounding tractor trailers used to smuggle migrants, and confiscating smugglers’ technology. HSI is the principal investigative arm of DHS, responsible for investigating transnational crime and threats, specifically those criminal organizations that exploit the global infrastructure through which international trade, travel, and finance move. HSI’s workforce of over 10,400 employees consists of more than 6,800 special agents assigned to 225 cities throughout the United States, and 93 overseas locations in 56 countries. HSI’s international presence represents DHS’s largest investigative law enforcement presence abroad and one of the largest international footprints in U.S. law enforcement.

[oipolinternacional]

Statement of Secretary of DHS on the Departure of Kimberly Cheatle

OIPOL & OIJUST Operating in USA / Communication by The Department of Homeland Security (DHS). July 23, 2024. Cooperation and edition Oipol & Oijust. July 23, 2024.- Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas released the following statement regarding Kimberly Cheatle: “I am grateful to Kimberly Cheatle for her leadership as the Director of the United States Secret Service and for her…

[thxnews]

Bipartisan National Security Agreement: New U.S. Immigration Era

A Landmark Legislation in the Making

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas recently hailed the bipartisan national security agreement reached in the U.S. Senate as a significant breakthrough. This development represents a pivotal moment, promising a more efficient, fair, and humane approach to national security and immigration management. With this agreement, the nation is poised to address long-standing challenges in its immigration system effectively and proactively.   The Core of the Agreement Streamlining Processes The agreement introduces measures to expedite the removal of individuals who lack a legal basis to remain in the United States. Furthermore, this approach cuts down the processing time dramatically from years to just months. However, this expedited procedure is balanced with faster protection and work authorization for those with legitimate claims, ensuring a just and equitable treatment for all involved in the immigration process. Adapting to Border Dynamics Recognizing the fluid nature of border dynamics, the legislation allows for temporary prohibitions on border entries for certain individuals when encounters spike to extremely high levels. This flexibility is crucial for maintaining control and order at the borders. Investing in Resources and Technology A highlight of the agreement is the commitment to significantly bolster the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) resources. After decades of underfunding, this financial infusion aims to expand the DHS workforce, enhancing its capacity to safeguard the nation. Furthermore, the agreement places a strong emphasis on technological advancements, particularly in preventing the entry of fentanyl and other illicit substances through ports of entry.  

Building on Administrative Efforts

Secretary Mayorkas underscored that the agreement builds upon the administration's existing strategies to enforce stronger consequences for unlawful border crossings while developing lawful, safe, and orderly pathways for eligible individuals. The introduction of new enforcement tools and resources through this proposal is expected to reinforce the DHS's capability to uphold the law effectively in the forthcoming months and years.   A Product of Bipartisan Effort The secretary extended his gratitude towards the bipartisan group of senators whose collaboration over several months culminated in this legislative proposal. Additionally, the involvement of DHS in providing technical and operational insights ensured the formulation of workable and effective solutions. This cooperative effort highlights the importance of government agencies and legislators working together to address pressing issues.   A Step Towards Comprehensive Reform While acknowledging that the proposal does not address every aspect of the immigration system, Secretary Mayorkas emphasized its critical role in enhancing border security and creating a more secure, orderly, fair, and humane immigration process. He urged Congress to pass the legislation promptly, highlighting the urgent need to equip the DHS workforce with the necessary tools and resources and to implement solutions that bolster border security.  

The Path Forward

As the U.S. stands on the brink of enacting these significant reforms, the focus shifts to Congress's response to this bipartisan call for action. Furthermore, the proposed measures, aimed at streamlining immigration processes and strengthening national security, signal a hopeful future for the country's immigration system. This pivotal moment underscores the potential for positive change in how the United States manages its immigration policies and procedures.   Sources: THX News & US Department of Homeland Security. Read the full article

[mariacallous]

I didn’t realize they were dropping the public charge rule! Oh my god, this is huge and good.

[npzlawyersforimmigration]

Secretary Mayorkas Designates Ukraine for Temporary Protected Status for 18 Months

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY

Office of Public Affairs

Secretary Mayorkas Designates Ukraine for Temporary Protected Status for 18 Months

WASHINGTON — The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the designation of Ukraine for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for 18 months.

“Russia’s premeditated and unprovoked attack on Ukraine has resulted in an ongoing war, senseless violence, and Ukrainians forced to seek refuge in other countries,” said Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas. “In these extraordinary times, we will continue to offer our support and protection to Ukrainian nationals in the United States.”

A country may be designated for TPS when conditions in the country fall into one or more of the three statutory bases for designation: ongoing armed conflict, environmental disasters, or extraordinary and temporary conditions. This designation is based on both ongoing armed conflict and extraordinary and temporary conditions in Ukraine that prevent Ukrainian nationals, and those of no nationality who last habitually resided in Ukraine, from returning to Ukraine safely. These conditions result from the full-scale Russian military invasion into Ukraine, which marks the largest conventional military action in Europe since World War II. This invasion has caused a humanitarian crisis with significant numbers of individuals fleeing and damage to civilian infrastructure that has left many without electricity or water or access to food, basic supplies, shelter, and emergency medical services.

Individuals eligible for TPS under this designation must have continuously resided in the United States since March 1, 2022. Individuals who attempt to travel to the United States after March 1, 2022 will not be eligible for TPS. Ukraine’s 18-month designation will go into effect on the publication date of the forthcoming Federal Register notice. The Federal Register notice will provide instructions for applying for TPS and an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). TPS applicants must meet all eligibility requirements and undergo security and background checks.

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Re-parole Process for Afghan Nationals - DHS

DHS Announces Re-parole Process for Afghan Nationals in the United States. WASHINGTON, DC (STL.News) Thursday, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a new process that will enable Afghan nationals to renew their parole and continue to live and work in the United States.  The new process is streamlined and will be at no cost, and will provide for a two-year renewal of parole for qualifying individuals.  This action is part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s ongoing commitment to the safety, security, and well-being of the thousands of Afghan nationals who arrived in the United States through Operation Allies Welcome and Enduring Welcome. “DHS is proud to have led Operation Allies Welcome, and we are committed to supporting our Afghan allies as they continue to settle into their communities across the country,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas.  “Through this new streamlined and fee-exempt process, eligible Afghan nationals will be able to continue living and working here as they pursue a permanent status.” Afghan nationals who are currently parolees may now apply for a renewal of their parole and employment authorization through a new streamlined and fee-exempt application process that is available online and on paper and that uses Form I-131, Application for Travel Document.  The renewal requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis for urgent humanitarian reasons and for a significant public benefit. DHS will also consider a two-year extension of parole for those Afghan parolees who applied and continue to apply for asylum (Form I-589) or for adjustment of status to that of a lawful permanent resident (Form I-485) (for example, adjustment of status as a special immigrant).  The extensions will be considered on a case-by-case basis for urgent humanitarian reasons and for a significant public benefit.  If an extension is approved, the applicant’s original employment authorization will be extended and sent to the applicant’s last address of record with USCIS. The Administration has repeatedly put forward an adjustment act and publicly called on Congress to support a bipartisan adjustment act that would provide a durable, more streamlined immigration pathway for those currently in parole. Afghan nationals are encouraged to pursue a permanent status in the United States for which they may be eligible, including through the Special Immigrant and asylum processes.   On May 17, 2023, DHS began hosting Afghan Support Centers across the country – the first two were held in Phoenix and Tucson, Arizona, and the next Afghan Support Center will be held June 21-24 at the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center in Sacramento, California   U.S. government personnel and nongovernmental organizations at the Afghan Support Centers will provide information regarding immigration and social services available for those who arrived through Operation Allies Welcome and Enduring Welcome   Additional dates and locations for Afghan Support Centers will be announced in the coming weeks. SOURCE: Department of Homeland Security Read the full article