As Title 42 ends for asylum-seekers in the U.S., an increase in border crossings and processing backlogs is expected.

Title: As Title 42 ends for asylum-seekers in the U.S., an increase in border crossings and processing backlogs is expected.


The end of Title 42, a public health order that allowed the U.S. government to expel asylum-seekers and other migrants at the border during the COVID-19 pandemic, is expected to lead to a surge in border crossings and processing backlogs. This policy, enacted in March 2020, has been criticized by advocates for its lack of transparency and for violating the rights of vulnerable populations.

The policy was put in place by the Trump administration as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, with the justification that it was necessary to prevent the spread of the virus. However, critics argued that the policy was used as a way to circumvent existing asylum laws and deny vulnerable populations access to protection in the U.S.

As of July 2021, Title 42 has been challenged in several court cases, with judges ruling that it is unconstitutional and in violation of existing asylum laws. Despite these rulings, the policy remained in effect due to appeals by the Biden administration.

However, on November 19th, the Biden administration announced that it would begin to wind down Title 42, beginning with the lifting of the policy for families on November 22nd. The administration cited the increase in vaccination rates and the availability of COVID-19 testing as reasons for the policy change.

While the end of Title 42 is a welcome development for advocates, it is expected to lead to a surge in border crossings and processing backlogs. According to government officials, the policy has led to a buildup of cases in immigration courts and a backlog of asylum applications.

Additionally, there are concerns about the Biden administration's ability to process the influx of asylum-seekers and other migrants. Despite promising to increase the capacity of processing centers and hire more immigration judges and asylum officers, the administration has struggled to keep up with the demand.

Advocates are calling on the Biden administration to take immediate action to address these issues and ensure that vulnerable populations have access to protection in the U.S. This includes increasing resources for processing centers, improving the asylum process, and providing legal representation to those in need.

The end of Title 42 is a positive step forward in the fight for immigrant rights and access to protection in the U.S. However, it is important for the Biden administration to act quickly to address the challenges that come with this policy change. By doing so, the administration can ensure that the U.S. remains a beacon of hope for those fleeing persecution and violence in their home countries.