The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a joint statement on rescheduling hearings under the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP) [PDF version]. We discussed the MPP in detail in a full article on site [see article].

The DOJ and DHS are working to resume MPP hearings as soon as possible. However, in light of the ongoing coronavirus outbreak and its spread in Mexico, the DOJ and DHS have agreed to postpone both MPP hearings and in-person document service through, and including, July 17, 2020.

The DOJ and DHS anticipate resuming MPP hearings on July 20, 2020. However, whether MPP hearings can resume at that time will depend on public health and safety indicators. In the meantime, the DOJ and DHS are working on ensuring compliance with applicable Centers for Disease Control (CDC) social distancing guidelines. They are also working on procuring equipment and resources that will be necessary to ensure the safety of MPP hearings.

The DOJ and DHS will reevaluate the timing for resuming MPP hearings on a weekly basis.

We will update the website with more information when it becomes available.