DHS secretary makes announcement about Title 42

Update: DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas says that when Title 42 is lifted on May 11, the US will return to processing migrants under Title 8. He says they do expect encounters along the southern border to increase when Title 42 is lifted.

"Our border is not open, and will not be open after May 11," said Mayorkas in his announcement.

Mayorkas is announcing new regional processing centers, to open soon along the border. He wants to increase legal pathways for migrants coming from Latin America, while also increasing penalties for those who attempt to enter illegally. He is also trying to crack down on human smugglers, who he says are becoming crueler.

The US is working with its partners in the western hemisphere to improve economic situations in countries where people are leaving their homes to enter the US. Secretary Blinken says he recognizes these improved measures will take time to make a difference for the everyday lives of people in the Americas.
Secretary Blinken says he is also working with "host countries" like Mexico where migrants are staying as they wait to enter the US.
The secretaries say they are also working to combat misinformation spread by human traffickers. Secretary Blinken says it's important for migrants to have accurate information about how to safely enter the US.
DHS is looking to expanded access for people looking to enter the US legally. That includes increased improved access to work opportunities.
Blinken claims that the US accepted 6 times more migrants in 2022 than it did in 2021.

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and Secretary of State Anthony Blinken make an announcement about Title 42.