Biden to End Trump-Era Forced Deportation of COVID-19 Immigrants

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] The Biden administration in the United States plans to repeal Title 42, a public health order that allows the forced deportation of illegal immigrants, around the end of May.

The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported on the 30th (local time), citing sources, that "if Title 42 is repealed, all illegal immigrants will be detained before receiving deportation orders or other procedures."

Title 42 was introduced by former President Donald Trump in March 2020 as a measure to respond to COVID-19, allowing immediate forced deportation of illegal immigrants without going through the usual procedures. It also applies to those seeking asylum at the border, drawing criticism for being inhumane.

Since it is a public health order, the decision to repeal Title 42 is made by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). White House Communications Director Kate Bedingfield said, "If the CDC ultimately determines that repealing Title 42 is appropriate, immigrants will flow into the border."

The CDC plans to decide on the repeal if there is no serious risk of illegal immigrants spreading COVID-19 in detention facilities. U.S. health authorities have postponed the enforcement of this policy until May 23 to prepare for a surge in new COVID-19 cases this spring.

The final decision on whether to repeal Title 42 will be made as early as the 31st. WSJ explained, "The CDC must decide on the termination of the policy on the 31st based on its regular review conducted every 60 days."

The Biden administration has faced pressure from the Democratic Party to restore asylum procedures at the border. Meanwhile, Republicans and some moderate Democrats have expressed concerns that repealing Title 42 will worsen immigration and drug problems in the U.S.

The U.S. government has proactively strengthened government contracts related to transportation and medical care and increased personnel in preparation for the repeal of Title 42. The day before, the Biden administration announced that it is planning various scenarios where up to 18,000 people could cross the border daily.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.