New rule gives refugees 10 days to challenge termination

The Department of Homeland Security’s new rule took effect October 14, shortening the time refugees have to respond to a notice seeking termination of their status from 30 days to 10 days. The change applies to responses challenging a determination that a refugee was ineligible when admitted to the United States. The interim final rule, titled Removing 30Day Refugee Termination Notice, took effect without the usual advance notice-and-comment process, according to the rule’s coverage. Global Refuge said a 30-day public-comment period opened when the rule took effect. The deadline applies after a notice of intent to terminate is issued; it does not itself terminate anyone’s refugee status. The administration says the change is intended to address the risk that people who were not eligible for refugee status were admitted. Department documents allege screening deficiencies under the Biden administration, including incomplete records and insufficient interviews. Refugee advocates dispute that account.