Safeguarding Americans From Extremist Risk (SAFER) at the Border Act

This legislation, titled the Safeguarding Americans From Extremist Risk (SAFER) at the Border Act, significantly restricts the Secretary of Homeland Security's authority to grant parole to certain non-citizens. It introduces new definitions for individuals considered a national security risk, including known terrorists , suspected terrorists , and special interest aliens . These definitions encompass individuals involved in terrorism-related activities, those identified on watchlists, or those posing a national security risk based on travel patterns. The bill amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to explicitly prohibit the parole of these newly defined categories of aliens. Specifically, it bars parole for individuals inadmissible due to espionage, sabotage, or activities to overthrow the government, as well as those involved in criminal or terrorist organizations. Furthermore, it prohibits parole for any alien listed on the Federal Bureau of Investigation Terrorism Watchlist or who has been arrested, charged, or convicted for terrorism-related crimes. The legislation also clarifies that parole should only be granted on a case-by-case basis for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit, and explicitly prohibits parole for refugees.