Sanctuary City Airports Could Face Customs Processing Cuts, Raising Concerns for Travelers and Cargo
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has once again raised the possibility of halting customs and immigration processing at airports in sanctuary cities. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin reportedly discussed this plan in a private meeting with travel industry executives last week.
According to reports from The Atlantic and Reuters, Mullin warned that DHS may reduce Customs and Border Protection staffing at major airports located in cities that do not cooperate with the federal government’s immigration enforcement efforts. The cities mentioned include Denver, Philadelphia, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York City, Newark, Seattle, and San Francisco.
This potential move follows Mullin’s earlier public remarks in April when he questioned whether sanctuary cities should continue to handle international customs processing. “If they’re a sanctuary city, should they really be processing customs into – into their city?” Mullin said during an appearance on Fox News’ “Special Report.”
Travel industry leaders have strongly opposed the proposal. Airlines for America, representing major airlines, called the idea “devastating” and warned it could disrupt passenger flights as well as international cargo operations. U.S. Travel, representing airlines, hotel chains, and rental car companies, urged governments to support policies that allow the smooth flow of legitimate travelers both domestically and internationally.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy appeared to distance the administration from the proposal during a House hearing on May 21. He stated, “We shouldn’t shut down air travel in a state that doesn’t agree with our politics,” signaling hesitation toward linking immigration enforcement to customs processing at airports.
The proposal reportedly might be considered after the conclusion of the FIFA World Cup in July. DHS, when contacted about Mullin’s comments, referred inquiries to his Fox News appearance rather than directly addressing the reports.
The idea has prompted concern among travel groups that such a move could disrupt the increasing global travel demand, particularly since international tourists are currently not arriving at the United States in expected numbers.
As the debate continues, the impact of any changes to customs processing at sanctuary city airports remains uncertain. Travelers and cargo operators may face delays and logistical challenges if staffing reductions occur. Officials and industry representatives continue to monitor the situation closely for any official decisions from the Department of Homeland Security.
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