FINDING: FINDING OF MASS INFLUX OF ALIENS
Department of Homeland Security
Notice Date: Jan. 23, 2025
Effective Date: Jan. 23, 2025
The Acting Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) made a formal finding “that there exist circumstances involving the administration of the immigration laws of the United States that endanger the lives, property, safety, or welfare of the residents of all 50 States and that an actual or imminent mass influx of aliens is arriving at the southern border of the United States and presents urgent circumstances requiring an immediate federal response.”
The finding concludes with a formal request for assistance from all 50 States in the administration of Federal immigration law. The finding and request for assistance expire in 60 days unless renewed by the Secretary.
This formal finding, before the confirmation of the new DHS Secretary, empowers interested States to coordinate detention, intelligence, and—crucially—law enforcement efforts with the Federal government. If enough States cooperate, this could alleviate some of the challenges ICE faces in detention and arrest capacity.
The impact of this finding will depend heavily on State cooperation and effectiveness. However, we know some States will be eager to act as a force multiplier to protect their citizens. Texas already has its effort, Operation Lone Star, that can easily expand with Federal support and cooperation. The State of Florida is also likely to be an efficient force multiplier.
The faster States answer this call, the faster mass deportations can ramp up.