ACLU Comment on Biden Administration Announcement on Border Wall Construction in Texas

WASHINGTON — The Biden administration announced Wednesday that it will waive 26 federal public health, environmental, and cultural preservation laws to expedite border wall and road construction in Starr County, Texas. The decision is a dramatic departure from President Biden’s previous decision to end border wall construction in favor of meaningful reforms.

Jonathan Blazer, director of border strategies at the American Civil Liberties Union, had the following reaction:

“The Biden administration’s decision to rush into border wall construction marks a profound failure. On the campaign trail, President Biden put it best when he said that the border wall is not a serious policy solution – and we couldn’t agree more. Instead of upholding this promise, the Biden administration is doubling down on the failed policies of the past that have proven wasteful and ineffective.

“This politically motivated action will only harm border communities. It’s time for the Biden administration to choose humanity and real solutions over politics.”