Presidential Proclamation Enforces Entry Suspension

On June 4, 2024, President Biden announced a Presidential Proclamation aimed directly at controlling the influx of noncitizens across the southern border. This directive led to the temporary suspension of certain entries, marking a decisive action in response to ongoing border security challenges.

The proclamation has had an immediate and measurable impact. A significant decline in migrant encounters was reported, with a 29% decrease observed in Border Patrol encounters between ports of entry from May to June 2024. This sharp reduction highlights the effectiveness of the policy in curbing unlawful crossings.

Decline in Migrant Encounters: A Detailed Analysis

The seven-day average of encounters saw an even more dramatic drop, falling by more than 50% from the proclamation’s announcement to the end of June 2024. This rapid decline underscores the policy’s force in deterring unauthorized entries and underscores President Biden’s commitment to robust border management.

Furthermore, the number of encounters at the Southwest Border decreased by over 50% over a six-week period, suggesting sustained enforcement and continued efficacy of the new border security measures. The Border Patrol’s seven-day average also decreased to below 1,900 encounters per day, reinforcing the trend toward lower crossing attempts.

Broader Implications of the Proclamation

Since the implementation of the Presidential Proclamation and the coinciding interim final rule, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has removed or returned more than 70,000 individuals to over 170 countries. This includes over 150 international repatriation flights, illustrating the logistical scale of the effort.

June 2024 saw the lowest monthly total of encounters for the Border Patrol along the southwest border since January 2021. This historical context highlights the proclamation’s significance in reversing previously rising trends in unauthorized border crossings. When compared to the pre-pandemic levels of June 2019, the decrease in encounters further cements the policy’s substantial impact.

Enhancing Border Security and International Cooperation

The success of recent border security measures is evident in the decrease in encounters and the increased number of removals. These steps have marked a meaningful impact on enforcing consequences for unlawful crossings. The policies have not only reduced the number of border encounters but also intensified efforts to secure the border.

Collaboration with international partners remains a critical aspect of this strategy. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) continues to work with these partners to combat transnational criminal organizations and prioritize protecting human lives over profits. This international cooperation is pivotal in maintaining the effectiveness of the border security measures set forth by the Presidential Proclamation.