The Story
Yesterday, the Trump admin proposed new rules to detain migrant families. Indefinitely.
Back up.
Earlier this year, the Trump admin announced a "zero tolerance" policy on illegal immigration. Every adult caught crossing the border illegally was detained, including those who claimed asylum. But a rule from the '90s – known as the Flores agreement – said kids can't stay in detention centers for more than 20 days.
Tell me more.
Because of that rule, past admins have typically detained families together (Obama admin) or made exceptions for adults traveling with kids (Bush admin). The Trump admin said 'we have a different idea.' In April, they started separating more than 2,500 kids from their parents, many for weeks or months. There was serious pushback...from both sides of the aisle. Then the admin backed off.
So what's this new proposal?
Scrap that 20-day rule – and detain families together for as long as their court process takes. The admin says this will stop incentivizing families to cross the border illegally. Critics say 'detention is bad for kids, period.'
theSkimm
The new rules go into effect 60 days from now, after a public comment period. But this approach is expected to be challenged in the courts, like it was under the Obama admin. It could make its way up to the Supremes.
PS: Immigration is one of the issues voters say they care most about this election season. Make sure you're read up on all the important issues before you head to the polls. No Excuses.
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