On Thursday, President Biden announced new immigration measures that would expand existing restrictions on immigration, obstruct due process, and further hinder people’s ability to seek asylum in the United States.

Nicholas Turner, president and director of the Vera Institute of Justice, issued the following statement:

“We expect more from the Biden administration than yesterday's announcement of a border security policy that will prevent asylum seekers from accessing their legal right to asylum under U.S. law. Title 42 has not only failed as a purported public health policy, but has forced thousands of people fleeing danger into cruel and often brutal circumstances by unlawfully denying their legal right to seek asylum under U.S. and international law. Instead of doubling down with this flawed policy, the administration should focus on ensuring that immigrants are afforded the dignity, respect, and meaningful due process we all deserve by restoring access to asylum and investing in representation for anyone at risk of removal who can’t afford a lawyer.

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About Vera Institute of Justice:

The Vera Institute of Justice is powered by hundreds of advocates, researchers, and policy experts working to transform the criminal legal and immigration systems until they’re fair for all. Founded in 1961 to advocate for alternatives to money bail in New York City, Vera is now a national organization that partners with impacted communities and government leaders for change. We develop just, antiracist solutions so that money doesn’t determine freedom; fewer people are in jails, prisons, and immigration detention; and everyone is treated with dignity. Vera’s headquarters is in Brooklyn, New York, with offices in Washington, DC, New Orleans, and Los Angeles. For more information, visit vera.org.