The Biden administration is considering reinstating a policy of detaining migrant families who cross the border irregularly, a practice the president discontinued when he took office, two administration officials said.
This is one of multiple options that administration officials have considered as they prepare for the end of Title 42, the public health order that allows border agents to immediately turn away certain immigrants who crossed the southern border irregularly.
White House officials and the Department of Homeland Security have held several meetings in recent days to discuss the possibility of reinstating the practice before the anticipated expiration of Title 42 in May, and as migrant border crossings continue to record high numbers.
CNN has contacted the White House for comment.
A Homeland Security spokesperson told CNN that “no decisions have yet been made as we prepare to suspend the Title 42 Public Health Order. The Government will continue to prioritize the safe, orderly, and humane processing of migrants.”