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The Biden administration has announced plans to restart the Task Force on New Americans, last active under President Barack Obama. The move, first promised by Biden over a year ago, is part of the administration’s attempt to take a more welcoming stance on immigration policy amid continued backlash over its response to the surge in border crossings, the Associated Press’ Colleen Long reports. Here's what you need to know.
The task force, administered by the White House Domestic Policy Council, aims to promote the integration of new immigrants and refugees by focusing on workforce training, education, financial access, language learning, and health.
Yes, but: The announcement arrives as Biden continues to face sustained criticism for his retention of the Remain in Mexico program and especially Title 42, a Trump-era policy implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic that gave officials leeway to expel migrants seeking asylum at the southern border. Following a series of legal battles, Title 42 is set to terminate on Wednesday.
The Biden administration has used Title 42 to turn away an increasing number of Venezuelan migrants seeking asylum at the U.S.-Mexico border. The Department of Homeland Security has detailed transition plans for managing the expected increase in migration following the lifting of Title 42, including bolstering personnel at the border, increasing Customs and Border Patrol holding capacity, and reinforcing existing protocols on unlawful entry.
This story appeared as "The Big Story" in The Yappie's Dec. 19, 2022 newsletter.
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