Trump admin proposes expanded DNA, biometrics collection for ICE arrests

The Department of Homeland Security proposed a new policy that allows immigration enforcement the authority to collect various "biometrics" from those detained by ICE as well as those involved in the immigration process, which can include US citizens. The different biometrics that can be collected include iris scans, retina maps, palm patterns, facial structure, voice texture, and behavioral characteristics.

The proposal states, "DHS proposes to define the term 'biometrics' to mean 'measurable biological (anatomical, physiological or molecular structure) or behavioral characteristics of an individual,' and include a list of modalities of biometric collection."

The same proposal expands the collection of "biometrics" to be required for DHS "by any individual, regardless of age, filing or associated with an immigration benefit request, other request, or collection of information, unless exempted” as well as “expand biometrics collection authority upon alien arrest.”

This comes after Trump also signed an executive order when he came into office which directs the DHS to take "appropriate action to fulfill the requirements of the DNA Fingerprint Act of 2005" for illegal immigrants arrested in the US.

In addition to the implementation of the new policy for biometrics that can be collected during immigration enforcement, another proposal has extended the use of biometric data to those that are short-term visitors in the US.

Under the proposal, those who file an immigration request and those associated with that request, such as sponsors, household members, and in some cases US citizens, may be required to submit biometrics to the government, per Rolling Stone.

DHS has also said that there will be “enhanced and continuous vetting,” of those involved in immigrating the US for "the entire immigration lifecycle” to ensure they “continue to present no risks to national security or public safety.” The move from DHS comes as the Trump administration has been looking to crack down harder on illegal immigration as well as crime from foreign nationals in the US.