Proposed Changes To Border Policy Harmful, Xenophobic: Watson Coleman

EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ — Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman has criticized the GOP-backed border package which passed the House Thursday, hours before the pandemic era policy was set to expire.

Title 42, the COVID-era policy was lifted at 11:59 on Thursday. Under Title 42 migrants were returned over the border and denied entry to seek asylum. Families and children were exempt.

The new GOP package would ramp up deportation and detention and significantly cut off asylum access. The measure passed in a 219-213 vote.

Watson Coleman said the country’s immigration policy must be based on “recognizing the humanity of all people,” especially those fleeing violence, persecution and environmental degradation.

“The Biden administration inherited a broken immigration system made worse by former President Trump's inhumane border policy. We must not continue Trump's legacy by cutting access to asylum. Doing so would only lead to more harm and put more innocent people at risk of violence,” Watson Coleman said.

The Congresswoman accused the Republicans of refusing to work with Democrats to create a “sensible border policy that improves security for Americans” and provides safety for those seeking asylum.

“Instead, they've used the border as a wedge issue to divide and scare Americans in order to win elections,” Watson Coleman said.

She noted that the GOP-introduced bill, H.R.2, will create mass deportation targeting 11 million undocumented immigrants including DACA recipients. It would also strip protections for unaccompanied minors, putting them in further danger, Watson Coleman said.

The proposed legislation would also cut federal funding for NGOs that provide initial shelter and care for migrants crossing the border.

"This xenophobic bill also impedes non-governmental organizations, like religious non-profit organizations, who provide shelter, transportation, and legal assistance to children and families fleeing horrific conditions. It will create chaos by requiring the Red Cross, Catholic Charities, and other groups to verify each and every individual’s immigration status before providing critical, often live-saving assistance,” Watson Coleman said.

“Americans support immigration. Defending the right to asylum and passing permanent protections for undocumented immigrants already in the United States is a far more humane approach, allowing us to keep families together as well as honor our shared values.”

Although the bill passed the House, it is unlikely to become law as Democrats hold a majority in Senate and oppose it. Earlier this week, the White House also issued a threat to veto the bill.

Have a correction or news tip? Email sarah.salvadore@patch.com