Letter to Kirstjen Nielsen, Secretary of Homeland Security - Families Should Remain Together Whenever Possible

Letter

Dear Secretary Nielsen,

Sharing your support for securing our border, I commend your relentless work to ensure Americans are safe in the communities we represent. I have deep respect for the men and women at DHS who proudly protect our nation and uphold our laws. I am writing regarding the current situation at the southern border, specifically the laws related to the policy of separating families seeking asylum, and what suggestions you have for Congress to fix our broken immigration system. I personally believe families should remain together whenever possible.

As you know, recent debate of our nation's immigration policies has sparked a review of the procedures put in place following adoption of the two federal court decisions. I recognize the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is following the letter of the law and working to process asylum claims in an expedient manner to reunite families. Moreover, it is my understanding that the language setting minimum standards for the care of unaccompanied children explicitly states these children should be held in the "least restrictive" environment. As Congress considers other possible interpretations of the "least restrictive" environment to best care for these minors, what alternatives do you recommend to ensure families under DHS custody remain together while appropriate care is administered and DHS officials vet the grounds for their claims and keep our borders safe?

Knowing of the limited resources your department receives to carry out its various missions, has DHS considered a cost analysis of supporting separate facilities for asylum seekers and their accompanied minors? Have operation costs increased since implementing the separation policy? I know DHS employs numerous medical and care professionals to ensure these facilities meet high standards. With the staffing requirements in mind, do you believe families may receive better care if they had access to all of the professionals at one streamlined facility?

Thank you for your attention to this important matter. I look forward to your timely response.

Sincerely,

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