Securing Our Borders (E.O. 14165)

Summary

Aims to stop illegal immigration by building a border wall, detaining and removing undocumented people, and ending 'catch-and-release' policies.

What problem does this solve?

The country is facing a major increase in people entering without permission, which creates safety risks and strains government resources. This order directs the government to build a border wall, detain and remove those who enter illegally, and end policies that release them into the country.

What does this order do?

Ends 'catch-and-release' policies

Requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to end the practice of releasing apprehended illegal aliens into the United States and instead detain them until they are removed.

Constructs physical border barriers

Directs the Secretary of Defense and Secretary of Homeland Security to build temporary and permanent physical barriers to gain full control of the southern border.

Resumes Migrant Protection Protocols

Orders the Secretary of Homeland Security to restart the policy that requires asylum seekers to remain in the country they came from while their removal proceedings are pending.

Terminates specific parole programs

Ends all categorical parole programs, including the one known as the 'Processes for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans.'

Stops use of the CBP One app for parole

Directs the government to stop using the 'CBP One' mobile application as a way to parole or allow otherwise inadmissible people into the United States.

Deploys more personnel to the border

Requires the Secretaries of Defense and Homeland Security to send enough personnel to the southern border to ensure complete operational control.

Prioritizes prosecution of border-related crimes

Instructs the Attorney General and Secretary of Homeland Security to focus on prosecuting crimes related to the border, such as human smuggling and trafficking.

Requires DNA collection from detained aliens

Mandates that the Attorney General and Secretary of Homeland Security collect DNA samples from all aliens detained under U.S. authority, as required by the DNA Fingerprint Act of 2005.

Who does this affect?

Immigrants and asylum seekers
Federal law enforcement agencies
Border communities

What is the real world impact?

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Fulfills a key political promise

Acts on a central campaign issue by taking a hardline stance on immigration, which appeals to voters who prioritize strict border enforcement and a physical wall.

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Strengthens national security

Controls who enters the country to stop the flow of illegal drugs, potential terrorists, and criminals, thereby protecting public safety.

When does this start?

This order takes effect on January 20, 2025, and includes a specific deadline for government agencies to provide recommendations.

Recommendations for additional measures

By February 3, 2025, the Secretaries of State, Homeland Security, and Health and Human Services, along with the Attorney General, must give the President recommendations for other actions to secure the border.