Statement from Secretary Mayorkas on Efficiently and Fairly Processing Asylum Claims

WASHINGTON – Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas released the following statement regarding the implementation of a rule that will ensure that noncitizens placed in expedited removal who are eligible for asylum are granted relief quickly, while those who are not are promptly removed. The rule goes into effect on May 31, 2022:

“DHS and DOJ are establishing a fair and efficient process for handling asylum claims at our borders. As we implement this transformative rule through a phased approach, we will reduce processing times and the years-long immigration court backlog. Individuals who qualify for asylum will receive protection more swiftly, and those who are not eligible will be promptly removed rather than remaining in the U.S. for years while their cases are pending. We are delivering justice quickly, while also ensuring due process.”