Secure and Protect Act of 2023

The Secure and Protect Act of 2023 makes significant changes to U.S. immigration procedures, particularly affecting minors and asylum seekers. It allows the Secretary of Homeland Security to detain alien minors (not previously unaccompanied) without regard to prior status, with a 100-day goal for removal proceedings, and preempts certain judicial decrees like the Flores settlement. The bill also changes asylum eligibility requirements, requiring a "credible fear" determination before referral to immigration judges, and establishes refugee processing centers in Mexico and Central America. Additionally, it mandates hiring 500 additional immigration judges and support staff to handle increased caseloads.