Number: RS21349
Title: U.S. Immigration Policy on Haitian Migrants
Authors: Ruth Ellen Wasem, Domestic Social Policy Division 
Abstract: The environmental, social, and political conditions in Haiti have long prompted congressional interest in U.S. policy on Haitian migrants, particularly those attempting to reach the United States by boat. While some observers assert that such arrivals by Haitians are a breach in border security, others maintain that these Haitians are asylum seekers following a decades old practice of Haitians coming by boat without legal immigration documents. Migrant interdiction and mandatory detention are key components of U.S. policy toward Haitian migrants, but human rights advocates express concern that Haitians are not afforded the same treatment as other asylum seekers. Relevant legislation includes H.R. 454, H.R. 522, and H.R. 750.
Pages: 6
Date: January 31, 2008