Biden announces new rules to protect migrant spouses of US citizens
President Biden made a significant announcement on Tuesday regarding new rules designed to safeguard the migrant spouses of U.S. citizens from deportation. The Department of Homeland Security will introduce a new policy that will enable certain migrants to apply for lawful permanent resident status, including non-citizen spouses and children of lawful U.S. permanent residents or citizens, the administration clarified.
The White House anticipates that this policy will provide protection to approximately half a million American families, which will encompass roughly 50,000 individuals under the age of 21 who are married to or children of U.S. citizens.
This move by President Biden comes amidst remarks made by FBI Director Wray warning of the terror threat posed by open borders just days before 8 ISIS suspects were arrested across the United States. President Biden delivered this announcement at the Abbotts Creek Community Center during an event promoting his economic agenda in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Additionally, the president’s new rules aim to simplify the visa process for U.S. college graduates, including those who are beneficiaries of the Obama-era Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), to remain in the U.S. if they have obtained a degree from a U.S. educational institution and have a job offer from a U.S.-based company.
The latest policies will not extend to those who have entered the U.S. unlawfully, according to a White House spokesperson. These rules will only apply to individuals who are eligible under existing U.S. law to adjust their status.
The White House spokesperson further explained that the administration is working towards creating streamlined processes that will provide predictability for those eligible for permanent resident status. President Biden’s administration intends to address the ongoing border crisis by allocating additional resources and collaborating with international partners to diminish the influx of arrivals into the U.S.
It has been emphasized by the White House that individuals posing a threat to national security or public safety will not qualify for protection under the new rules. DHS will either deport such individuals or refer them to other agencies for further scrutiny.
A White House spokesperson emphasized President Biden’s belief in securing the border while expanding lawful pathways and keeping families together. The administration recognizes that immigrants who have resided in the United States for an extended period, contributing to society and abiding by the law, are an integral part of the country’s social fabric.
