Revision of Civil Immigration Enforcement Policies and Priorities

Jan 25, 2021

Summary

Changes how the government enforces immigration laws to focus on national security, public health, and treating people with dignity.

What problem does this solve?

The previous administration's approach to enforcing immigration laws was not seen as serving the national interest or respecting human dignity. This order cancels the old policy and directs government agencies to create new rules that focus on security, safety, and fairness.

What does this order do?

Revokes Executive Order 13768

Immediately cancels the executive order from January 25, 2017, which had expanded the priorities for immigration enforcement and deportation.

Establishes new immigration enforcement policies

Sets a new policy to protect national and border security, address humanitarian challenges, ensure public health and safety, and follow the due process of law.

Requires agency review of old policies

Directs the heads of Homeland Security, the State Department, and other agencies to review and revise any rules or guidance that were created under the now-revoked Executive Order 13768.

Who does this affect?

Immigrants
Federal immigration enforcement agencies

What is the real world impact?

•

Reverses a prior administration's policy

Cancels Executive Order 13768, which was a key part of the previous administration's approach to immigration. This signals a major shift in how the government will handle immigration enforcement.

When does this start?

This order took effect on January 20, 2021.