June 12, 2018
Mr. Guy D. Bailey
Dear Mr. Bailey:
Thank you for contacting me regarding concerns about boarder enforcement policies. Understanding your ideas and concerns helps me better represent you and the Second District of Minnesota. I value your comments and appreciate the opportunity to respond.
As you may know, it has recently been reported that the Department of Homeland Security has adopted a new policy of separating their minor children from their parents at the border.
DHS has not changed its policies around separating adults from children at the border. Consistent with the policy of the previous administration, separation will occur if officials believe that a child is in danger of potential smuggling and trafficking activities, especially if DHS cannot verify the familial relationship. However, if individuals are arrested for illegally crossing the border they will be prosecuted for violating federal law. On Friday, April 6th, the Department of Justice announced a zero-tolerance policy for criminal illegal entry to ensure the law is upheld. When adults are jailed, they are not able to be accompanied by their minor children and the children are placed with the Department of Health and Human Services.
May was the third month in a row where more than 50,000 individuals were apprehended for crossing the border illegally. With such a large number of families attempting to illegally cross the border, many children are placed in the unfortunate situation where they are separated from their parents. Those seeking asylum can avoid family separation by presenting themselves at a legal border crossing.
Like you, I believe our current immigration system is broken. I believe that we can make meaningful reforms that protect our national security while also ensuring we have a fair system for individuals to immigrate to the United States. If legislation regarding DHS immigration policies come before the House of Representatives, I will certainly consider it with your thoughts in mind.
Thank you for contacting me. As Congress debates solutions to the challenges facing our nation, I hope you will continue to share your thoughts and views with me. Should you have any further questions or comments about this or any legislative issue, please do not hesitate to contact me in my Washington, D.C. office at (202) 225-2271. Also, please visit me on social media at: www.facebook.com/repjasonlewis, www.youtube.com/repjasonlewis, https://twitter.com/repjasonlewis, and my website at jasonlewis.house.gov to sign up for my e-newsletter for the latest updates from Washington, D.C. and around the district.
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