DHS is amending its regulations to allow USCIS to refer certain affirmative asylum applications directly to an immigration judge, without first conducting an interview. The rule took effect immediately upon publication on July 28, 2026.
The Executive Office for Immigration Review is proposing to give immigration judges explicit authority to impose civil money penalties on attorneys, respondents, and witnesses for conduct found to be in contempt of the court's authority.
Affirmative Asylum Referrals Without Interview
DHS is amending its regulations to allow USCIS to refer certain affirmative asylum applications directly to an immigration judge, without first conducting an interview. The rule took effect immediately upon publication on July 28, 2026.
Civil Money Penalty for Actions in Contempt of an Immigration Judge's Proper Exercise of Authority
The Executive Office for Immigration Review is proposing to give immigration judges explicit authority to impose civil money penalties on attorneys, respondents, and witnesses for conduct found to be in contempt of the court's authority.