Migrant Protection Protocol Suspended Until July 17

TUCSON, ARIZONA, USA – US hearings under the Migrant Protection Protocol (MPP) remain suspended until July 17.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) and Homeland Security (DHS) have discussed the resumption of hearings and proposed the date of July 17.

The reason for the pause is to minimize the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic, considering the guidelines by the US federal government. Additionally considering the amount of Covid-19 cases in Mexico and the State Department’s travel alerts.

In addition to the recommendations by the Center for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) and the risks of exposure to Coronavirus for immigrants traveling throughout Mexico. Also to ensure the safety of agents and personnel at the border and at the port entrance and court staff.

In Nogales, Sonora, about 40 people are waiting for the audiences staying in the San Juan Bosco Migrant Shelter, and of these, approximately half are children and minors.