Asylum Work Authorization and the U.S. Labor Market: What Employers Should Know About DHS’s Proposed Rule

On Feb. 20, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a proposed rule intended to strengthen screening of asylum seekers and reduce what it characterizes as fraudulent or meritless asylum applications. A central component of the proposal would significantly alter access to employment authorization for individuals with pending affirmative asylum claims.... By: Warner Norcross + Judd