Recent changes in United States immigration policies now allow authorities to make arrests at places like schools, churches, and hospitals. This reversal of previous rules designates these locations as no longer off-limits for enforcement activities.
The Department of Homeland Security, overseeing Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection, announced the shift, emphasizing the need to eliminate areas where individuals could evade arrest.
The new directive, issued by Acting DHS Secretary Benjamine Huffman, also reinstates the use of expedited removal nationwide, enabling ICE to swiftly deport undocumented individuals.
These changes are part of a broader immigration crackdown by the current administration, including the suspension of the refugee system, restrictions on entry, and increased cooperation between ICE and local authorities.
ICE agents are preparing for nationwide operations to apprehend and deport undocumented individuals, as confirmed by Trump’s border czar, Tom Homan.
Despite opposition from advocacy groups and religious leaders, concerns remain about the impact on immigrant families, particularly those with US-citizen children.