- A new Department of Homeland Security rule will allow asylum applicants to be sent directly to immigration courts without an initial intake interview.
- Effective from Tuesday (July 28), the rule is intended by officials to reduce a backlog of approximately 1.4 million pending asylum cases.
- Immigrant advocacy groups argue the change violates due process rights and increases the risk of applicants being deported to dangerous situations.
- Beth Oppenheim, president and CEO of HIAS, stated the rule makes it easier for the government to deport people and undermines the country's role in protecting those seeking safety.
- This policy is part of broader changes to immigration courts, which have included the dismissal of cases and the denial of bond, drawing criticism for undermining due process.
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