WASHINGTON - The Biden Administration began flying some migrants back to their home country on Friday. This follows a new policy that allowed immigration authorities to take families without having to hear.According to the Department of Homeland Security, expedited removal flights were initiated Friday for families who arrived at U.S.-Mexico's border. They could not be expelled according to Title 42 but did not have legal grounds to remain in the United States.Title 42 permits Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to expel undocumented migrants in order to stop the spread of COVID-19 to holding facilities.The State Department stated Friday that expedited removal is legal and a way to secure our border. It is also a step towards our larger goal of ensuring orderly and safe immigration processing. We are making it clear that anyone who is not eligible to remain in the United States by placing them into expedited removal families that cannot be expelled under Title 42 will be removed promptly.According to DHS officials, approximately 73 people were removed from these first flights."Something must change": Senator Lindsey Graham and Rep. Henry Cuellar urge Biden to appoint the 'border czar.DHS Monday announced that certain family units that can't be expelled according to Title 42 will now face expedited removal proceedings. Monday's announcement by DHS stated that crossing between ports of entry or avoiding inspection at ports is not the right way to enter the United States.During the Clinton administration, expedited removal proceedings were established and used by both Republican administrations and Democratic administrations.The Biden Administration has been criticized by immigration activists for reintroducing the policy.More: White House announces strategy to "change the way" people migrate from Central AmericaThis week, the Biden Administration introduced a strategy to identify root causes and a plan for working with other countries to reduce migration from the region.Continue the storyDHS stated that irregular migration to the United States can be dangerous and could have long-term immigration consequences. This journey is particularly dangerous for families, children and teenagers.Follow Rebecca Morin @RebeccaMorin_This article first appeared on USA TODAY. DHS flew some migrants home as part of a new policy.
