ICE to Introduce ID Program for Illegal Immigrants This Summer

A New ID Card Pilot Program by ICE

The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is gearing up to launch a contentious ID card pilot program for illegal immigrants who are being released into the US. The aim of this initiative, as reported by Fox News, is to 'modernize the documentation process for removal proceedings'.

Details of the Secure Docket Card Program

First unveiled in 2022, the 'Secure Docket Card' pilot program is slated to kick off this summer with an initial rollout of approximately 10,000 cards at three or four locations across the US. The agency has stated that the program is "pre-decisional" and may undergo changes. Houston and Atlanta have been named as potential locations for the program.

According to officials, the program is designed to "modernize documentation provided to some noncitizens", but it will not serve as an official form of federal ID.

Functionality of the Secure Docket Card

The agency clarified that while the specifics of the card and pilot are still being developed, it's crucial to note that the secure card will not be recognized as an official form of federal identification. The secure card will only be provided after national security background checks have been conducted and will be used exclusively by DHS agencies.

When illegal immigrants cross the border and are released into the country, they are typically given a variety of paper documents depending on their status and circumstances. ICE argues that such documents pose a security threat and can be easily lost or damaged, and the new program will enhance the agency's efficiency.

The new system will also facilitate easier identity verification through DHS systems by officials, as reported by Fox News.

Efficiency and Accessibility of the New Program

A spokesperson told the outlet that transitioning to a secure card will save the agency millions of dollars, free up resources, and ensure that information is readily available to DHS officials while reducing the agency’s FOIA backlog. For provisionally released noncitizens, the digital modernization will provide ongoing access to crucial immigration documents via the secure card and connected portal.

Expected Opposition to the Program

The program is likely to encounter strong resistance from Republicans and conservatives who have previously criticized the Biden administration for its regular releases of illegal immigrants.

"Just in time for the election, the Biden administration is quietly legitimizing a government-sanctioned invasion of our nation," stated RJ Hauman, president of the National Immigration Center for Enforcement (NICE) and a visiting fellow at The Heritage Foundation, in a statement to Fox News Digital.

He further added, "Providing illegal aliens with identification will undoubtedly lead to obtaining other documents, benefits and rights — or create an entirely new identity. After all, most who cross the border have no identification information in their possession. So, how do we even know who they are?"

Legislation on Citizenship Question on the Census

On Wednesday, Republicans pushed forward with legislation that would mandate a citizenship question on the census to prevent noncitizens from being counted.

Article by Tyler Durden

Published on Fri, 05/10/2024 - 13:00

What's Your Take?

This article presents an interesting development in the ongoing immigration debate. What are your thoughts on ICE's planned ID card program for illegal immigrants? Do you think it's a step in the right direction or do you have concerns? Share your thoughts with your friends and let's get a conversation started. Remember, you can sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.