HHS Chief Defends His Agency’s Handling of Children Who Entered US Illegally

A congressional hearing recently highlighted the concern of 323,000 children who have gone missing after being placed with sponsors. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra denied these claims in testimony before a congressional subcommittee. Becerra defended his department’s actions regarding the placement of children with sponsors, stating that once placed, they are no longer the responsibility of HHS. Subcommittee members raised concerns about the safety and well-being of these children, with Chairman Tom McClintock suggesting that the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) prioritized speed over safety in placements. Reports have shown that a significant number of unaccompanied minors have not shown up for court dates or have been released without immigration dates, making it challenging to monitor their status. The hearing also discussed instances of potential trafficking and abuse of these children by sponsors. Democrats defended Becerra, emphasizing that efforts are made to follow up with sponsors and children, but responses cannot be forced. Plans to locate these missing children are part of President-elect Donald Trump’s border strategy, with incoming border czar Tom Homan prioritizing at-risk children who entered the country illegally. Homan expressed concerns about the exploitation of these children and underscored the need to ensure their safety. ICE is called upon to take immediate action to locate and protect these unaccounted-for children. Can you please rewrite this sentence?

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