DHS must fully account for migrant crimes linked to Biden parole program, lawmaker says

First on Fox: Rep. Marcus Luttrell Introduces Legislation to Track Crimes by CHNV Program Beneficiaries

Rep. Marcus Luttrell, R-Texas, is taking action to address growing concerns about the impact of the Biden administration’s immigration policies on national security and public safety. On behalf of Fox News, Luttrell has announced the introduction of new legislation that would require the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to report on crimes committed by individuals admitted into the U.S. under the controversial CHNV program. The proposed bill, titled the Criminal Illegal Alien Report Act, aims to increase transparency and accountability by providing Congress with detailed information about criminal activities linked to beneficiaries of this program. Luttrell emphasized, “If we’re serious about securing our country, we need to know exactly what we’re up against.” This move comes amid heightened scrutiny of the CHNV program, which has been criticized for its potential to undermine efforts to secure the southern border and protect American communities.

Understanding the CHNV Program and Its Controversies

The CHNV program, formally known as the Process for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans, was introduced by the Biden administration in 2022. Initially designed to provide a pathway for Venezuelan asylum seekers, the program allowed individuals to be paroled into the U.S. for up to two years if they had a financial sponsor in the country. In 2023, the program was expanded to include nationals from Cuba, Haiti, and Nicaragua, with a monthly cap of 30,000 participants from these four countries. While the Biden administration has highlighted the program’s role in reducing illegal crossings at the southern border, critics argue that it has not effectively addressed the overall influx of migrants. Instead, beneficiaries are required to fly to a U.S. airport and enter through official ports of entry, a process that has raised concerns about its effectiveness in preventing illegal immigration.

The Trump Administration’s Stance and Recent Incidents

The CHNV program has been a focal point of criticism, particularly after several high-profile incidents involving beneficiaries of the program. Notably, in 2022, Jose Ibarra, a Venezuelan national admitted under the CHNV program, was charged with the tragic murder of University of Georgia student Laken Riley. This case sparked widespread outrage and calls for greater oversight of the program. Additionally, in 2024, another CHNV beneficiary was arrested in Virginia for allegedly sexually abusing a 14-year-old girl. These incidents have intensified concerns about the potential risks associated with the program and the need for stronger vetting and monitoring mechanisms.

In response to these concerns, former President Donald Trump took swift action during his administration, shutting down the CHNV program via executive order on his first day in office. Despite this, Rep. Luttrell has pointed out that over 50,000 individuals were already paroled into the U.S. through the program at various airport ports of entry nationwide. Luttrell argues that these cases demonstrate the urgent need for congressional oversight and greater transparency from DHS regarding the activities of CHNV beneficiaries.

The Criminal Illegal Alien Report Act: A Push for Transparency

Rep. Luttrell’s proposed legislation seeks to address these concerns by requiring DHS to compile and submit a report to Congress detailing crimes committed by individuals admitted under the CHNV program. The report would provide critical information about the nature of these crimes, the number of offenders, and any subsequent law enforcement actions taken. Luttrell believes this data is essential for policymakers to understand the full scope of the issue and implement effective solutions to strengthen national security and protect American communities.

“The bill I introduced will give Congress the hard facts we need to work with the Trump administration to strengthen security and make sure those who threaten our communities are stopped in their tracks,” Luttrell said. “Protecting Americans should be the top priority.” By demanding accountability and transparency, Luttrell hopes to ensure that immigration policies prioritize the safety and well-being of U.S. citizens while addressing the complexities of the ongoing border crisis.

A Broader Debate on Immigration Policy and National Security

The introduction of the Criminal Illegal Alien Report Act underscores the ongoing debate over immigration policy in the U.S., particularly as it pertains to national security and public safety. While supporters of the CHNV program argue that it provides a humane and lawful pathway for asylum seekers fleeing dangerous conditions in their home countries, critics warn that the program may be exploited by individuals with malicious intent. The tragic cases involving CHNV beneficiaries have only intensified these concerns, with many calling for stricter vetting processes and greater oversight.

As the CHNV program continues to be a focal point in discussions about immigration reform, Rep. Luttrell’s legislation represents a concerted effort to hold the Biden administration accountable for the consequences of its policies. By demanding transparency and action from DHS, Luttrell and his supporters hope to create a safer and more secure environment for all Americans, while also ensuring that the nation’s immigration system operates with integrity and accountability. This bill serves as a reminder that the balance between compassion and security remains a central challenge in shaping U.S. immigration policy.