The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed a new rule to enhance border security by allowing the use of classified information earlier in the asylum process. This Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) aims to expedite the removal of migrants who pose national security or public safety risks.

Federal law prohibits granting asylum to individuals who pose such risks, including those convicted of serious crimes, involved in persecution or deemed threats to U.S. security.

Currently, asylum eligibility determinations are made later in the process. The proposed rule would permit asylum officers to consider classified information during initial credible fear screenings, conducted shortly after a migrant is encountered. This change would allow for quicker identification and removal of threats.

“The proposed rule would allow asylum officers to issue denial of claims within days after an individual is encountered when there is evidence that the individual is barred from asylum because of a terrorism, national security or criminal bar,” the DHS statement reads.