Unaccompanied Migrant Children: What’s Behind HHS Oversight Gaps?

Child holding teddy bear near people and tent outside.

A recent federal report has exposed serious failures in the Department of Health and Human Services under Secretary Xavier Becerra, elevating risks for migrant children who face trafficking and exploitation.

At a Glance

  • House Republicans question Secretary Becerra about unaccounted migrant children.
  • Alarming increase in child labor trafficking with 6,000 minors in hazardous jobs.
  • Becerra emphasizes HHS’s role ends with vetted placement by Homeland Security.
  • Over 250,000 migrant children entered the U.S. alone in the last two years.

Oversight Shortcomings

House Republicans have challenged HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra over the accountability and background checks of sponsors for migrant children. Reports indicate many minors are placed with unvetted individuals, leading to exploitation risks. Becerra defended HHS by stating, “No sponsor would be allowed to take a child if we have information that shows that they are engaged in criminal activity.” Yet, criticism persists regarding the efficacy of these checks.

The communication breakdown has resulted in many children avoiding immigration hearings, raising questions about their safety. Republicans are concerned that the current administration’s policies expedite placements without ample verification.

Labor Trafficking Surge

There has been an 88% rise in child labor trafficking incidents from 2019 to Fiscal Year 2023, with nearly 6,000 minors employed unlawfully in treacherous conditions. A New York Times study exposed violations of labor laws, prompting new policies and increased enforcement actions against companies exploiting young migrant laborers. Secretary Becerra acknowledged the challenges, suggesting action falls under Congress’s jurisdiction for systemic overhaul.

Additionally, an HHS whistleblower accused the department of operating a “multi-billion-dollar child trafficking operation” by routinely releasing Unaccompanied Alien Children (UACs) to unverified sponsors. These revelations underscore the gravity of existing gaps in HHS’s oversight mechanisms.

Policy and Accountability

The intense scrutiny of HHS practices reflects complex national issues of immigration control and child protection failures. Reps. like Wesley Hunt criticize the swelling numbers of refugee admissions, drawing comparisons with past administrations and claiming they sideline American priorities. Despite these challenges, Secretary Becerra insists HHS only assumes responsibility until Homeland Security finds a vetted sponsor, maintaining that system reform lies with legislative bodies.

“How can you say that the No. 1 priority is the safety of these unaccompanied children when you’re placing them in sponsors’ homes that occasionally have had criminal gang affiliations because there are no proper background checks?” – Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz.

The bipartisan call for a thorough examination of HHS’s capabilities aims to avert further scandals involving migrant children’s welfare. Congressional hearings continue to highlight systemic flaws and the need for effective measures to address federal agencies’ duty in safeguarding vulnerable minors.

Sources:

  1. House Republicans grill HHS Secretary Becerra over migrant children: ‘Would not want to be you’
  2. Becerra puts onus on Congress over migrant children re-settlement
  3. Xavier Becerra Says ‘We Do the Best We Can’ After HHS Loses Contact with Thousands of Migrant Children

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