CBP Closes Processing Facilities in Texas, Arizona Amid Declining Migrant Encounters

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is set to close five temporary processing facilities along the U.S.-Mexico border due to a significant decrease in illegal crossings, saving taxpayers between $5 and $30 million monthly per site. The facilities in Laredo, Donna, North Eagle Pass, Yuma, and Tucson will be shuttered, while those in El Paso and San Diego will remain operational. This drop in apprehensions has been attributed to stricter border policies implemented since President Trump's administration took office, leading to an unprecedented low of around 330 daily apprehensions in February. CBP officials noted that the resources from these closures will be redirected to bolster border enforcement. The closures are seen as a response to the reduced need for additional processing space, as the number of encounters has plummeted significantly since January 2024. Overall, the agency aims to enhance efficiency and fiscal responsibility as it adapts to changing border dynamics.