Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SB348

Introduced
2/9/23  

Caption

Asylum Abuse Reduction Act

Impact

The introduction of this bill would result in significant changes to federal immigration law, specifically concerning how asylum applications are initiated. By mandating that asylum seekers first undergo screenings at foreign embassies rather than presenting themselves at the U.S. border, the bill aims to reduce fraudulent claims and streamline the asylum process. This could lead to a decrease in the number of individuals entering the U.S. who do not meet the required criteria for asylum.

Summary

SB348, titled the 'Asylum Abuse Reduction Act', seeks to modify existing procedures regarding the processing of asylum seekers at U.S. borders. It stipulates that individuals attempting to enter the United States from Canada or Mexico without valid documentation must schedule an asylum hearing at a U.S. embassy or consulate in those countries. The bill intends to enforce stricter controls at the border by preventing immediate entry for asylum seekers unless they've undergone credible fear screenings conducted by embassy personnel.

Contention

Critics of SB348 argue that the bill could result in refugees being deterred from seeking protection in the United States, as the requirement to apply from overseas may impose significant barriers, particularly for individuals fleeing immediate danger. There is concern that this new procedure may prioritize bureaucratic efficiency over humanitarian protections. Additionally, the potential for increased burdens on U.S. embassies and consulates could strain resources and affect diplomatic relations with neighboring countries.

Companion Bills

US HB469

Same As Asylum Abuse Reduction Act This bill places restrictions on non-U.S. nationals (aliens under federal law) seeking asylum and contains provisions related to immigration enforcement. Under this bill, an asylum seeker who arrives at a U.S. land port of entry without entry documents may not be admitted unless an asylum officer at a U.S. embassy or consulate has interviewed the individual and has concluded that the individual (1) has been persecuted in the alien's country of nationality due to their race, religion, or other characteristics; (2) has a credible fear of persecution if they returned to that country; or (3) would be tortured by the government upon return to that country. (Currently, an individual arriving at a port of entry may apply for asylum and an immigration officer there typically will conduct a credible fear interview.) Furthermore, an individual who traveled through a third country to enter the United States through the southern border shall be ineligible for asylum unless (1) the individual has applied for and been denied asylum or protection in that third country, (2) the individual was a victim of severe human trafficking, or (3) the third country is not party to certain international agreements relating to refugees. Each federal judicial district shall appoint at least one judge to issue arrest warrants for individuals violating orders to depart, upon a showing of probable cause. Under this bill, the Flores agreement (a lawsuit settlement which imposes various requirements relating to the treatment of minors detained for immigration-related purposes) shall not apply.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.