DHS Sidesteps Rules to Turbocharge Texas Border Barriers

2025-19747 — Collection and Use of Biometrics by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) wants to update how they collect and use biometrics—like fingerprints and DNA—from anyone applying for immigration benefits, no matter their age. They’re also expanding when and how they collect this info, including after arrests, and setting new rules for special cases like VAWA and T visa applicants. If you want to share your thoughts, you’ve got until January 2, 2026, to speak up!

2025-19655 — Collection of Biometric Data From Aliens Upon Entry to and Departure From the United States

Starting December 26, 2025, anyone who isn’t a U.S. citizen will have to get their photo and other biometric info taken when they enter or leave the United States—no matter if they’re at an airport, land border, or seaport. This new rule replaces old pilot programs and expands where biometrics are collected. It affects travelers and could change how quickly you move through customs, so the government is also asking for feedback on the process and costs by November 26, 2025.

2025-19642 — U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment-Based Immigrant Visa, Fifth Preference (EB-5) Fee Rule

The government plans to change the fees for the EB-5 immigrant visa program, which helps people invest in the U.S. to get green cards. These updates will support new rules from the 2022 EB-5 Reform Act and make sure the program stays fair and strong. If you’re involved with EB-5 visas, watch for fee changes and get your comments in by December 22, 2025!

2025-18473 — Weighted Selection Process for Registrants and Petitioners Seeking To File Cap-Subject H-1B Petitions

The government is changing how it picks who gets to file H-1B visa petitions by using a weighted system that favors higher-skilled and better-paid workers. This means employers hiring for top jobs have a better shot, but workers at all pay levels still have a chance. These changes will affect anyone applying for H-1B visas and could impact how quickly and easily employers get their petitions accepted.

2026-06164 — Addition of Preclearance Facility at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport

U.S. Customs and Border Protection just opened a new preclearance spot at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport starting March 10, 2026. This means travelers flying directly to the U.S. from there can clear customs and immigration before they even board, making arrivals smoother and faster. If you fly from this airport, expect quicker entry into the U.S. with less hassle and no extra fees.

2026-05952 — Notice of Adoption of Categorical Exclusions Under Section 109 of the National Environmental Policy Act

The Department of Homeland Security just made it easier and faster to approve certain projects by adopting five new shortcuts called categorical exclusions under the National Environmental Policy Act. This means DHS can skip lengthy environmental reviews for specific actions that won’t harm the environment, saving time and resources starting March 27, 2026. If you’re involved with DHS projects, expect quicker decisions without cutting corners on protecting nature!

Previous: 2025-16306 — Pacific Gas and Electric Company; Notice of Reasonable Period of Time for Water Quality Certification Application

Pacific Gas and Electric Company asked California’s Water Board for permission to make sure their project keeps water clean. The Water Board has a set time to say yes or no, or they lose their chance to decide. This keeps things moving smoothly and helps PG&E plan without delays or extra costs.

Next: 2025-16308 — Agency Information Collection Activities: Generic Clearance for the Development of Nutrition Education Messages and Products for the General Public (Generic Clearance To Conduct Formative Research/CNPP)

The government wants to keep asking people what they think about nutrition messages and tools to make them better and easier to understand. This affects anyone interested in healthy eating info and won’t cost extra or change the current process. They’re just extending the time to collect feedback and improve nutrition education for everyone.