U.S.-Mexico Asylum Deal Will Help [OPINION]

The U.S. and Mexico have reached an accord that will go a long way towards addressing immigration concerns here in the U.S.

Under the agreement, Mexico will offer migrants seeking asylum in the U.S. humanitarian visas that will allow them to live and work in Mexico while their claim for asylum is processed by the U.S. court system.

Until now, asylum seekers who crossed the border without proper documentation were allowed to remain in the country while their claim was processed, but most disappeared into the country and never returned for court hearings. This practice has become known as "catch and release."

The deal with Mexico allows the U.S. to return those asylum seekers to Mexico where they will await a court decision on their application for asylum. If approved, they will be allowed into the country. If denied, they will be returned to their country of origin.

The agreement is proof that the new Mexican government is serious about working with the Trump Administration to find a solution to some of these vexing immigration issues. It does not mean that a border wall is no longer needed.

Between trade and immigration, the Administration appears to be making headway with Mexico in achieving some of its stated objectives. If only Congress was as eager to get something done.

Barry Richard is the host of The Barry Richard Show on 1420 WBSM New Bedford. He can be heard weekdays from noon to 3 p.m. Contact him at barry@wbsm.com and follow him on Twitter @BarryJRichard58. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.