House Bill Threatens Unaccompanied Immigrant Children: $45 Billion for Jails, Legal Aid Crisis Looms

The House of Representatives recently passed a bill that could drastically alter the landscape for unaccompanied immigrant children in the US. The bill eliminates critical protections and allocates a staggering $45 billion towards building new immigration jails—a 13-fold increase compared to the current ICE detention budget. This financial burden disproportionately affects vulnerable children and families, making access to legal aid nearly impossible. According to the video, the cost for a single child's case could reach $15,100, covering apprehension, release to a sponsor, asylum application, and legal delays. "This is beyond urgent," states the video's presenter, highlighting the bill's swift progression through Congress. The situation is dire; in 2019 alone, at least seven children died in US immigration custody, some in overcrowded and unsanitary facilities lacking proper medical care. The video serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for action to protect these children and advocates for support from organizations like KIND.