Biden memo for ICE officers points to fewer deportations

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers will need preapproval from a senior manager before trying to deport anyone who is not a recent border crosser, a national security threat or a criminal offender with an aggravated felony conviction, according to interim enforcement memo issued by the Biden administration Thursday.

The narrower priorities are expected to result in a drop in immigration arrests and deportations. Biden officials said the new guidelines - which will be in effect for the next 90 days - will allow the agency to make better use of its resources while prioritizing public safety threats. President Joe Biden, who has rejected calls from liberal Democrats to “abolish ICE,” has taken several measures during his first month to reverse his predecessor’s immigration policies and chart a much different course. Reining in an agency with a reputation for zealous enforcement under President Donald Trump was at the top of Biden’s list.

“By focusing our limited resources on cases that present threats to national security, border security, and public safety, our agency will more ably and effectively execute its law enforcement mission,” ICE acting director Tae Johnson said in a statement. “We must prioritize our efforts to achieve the greatest security and safety impact.”

Republican lawmakers and others critical of Biden’s changes say the narrower priorities will strip ICE officers of discretion while allowing offenders with DUI convictions or serious felonies to remain in the country.