The Safe Zones Act of 2023 (H.R. 2946), introduced by Congressman Vicente Gonzalez of Texas, would create secure facilities outside the U.S. — near the U.S.-Mexico border and in Guatemala — where people could apply for asylum without crossing the border. The zones would offer housing, meals, and medical care. Up to $40 million per year would fund the program. The bill was referred to the House Subcommittee on Border Security and Enforcement in April 2023.
This bill would create places outside the U.S. where people can apply for asylum. Houston receives many asylum seekers, so changes to how asylum works can affect local services and communities.
