Today, the Center for Democracy and Technology (CDT) submitted comments opposing the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) initiative to collect social media identifiers from applicants seeking various immigration benefits. This proposal, which spans applications from asylum to naturalization, is seen by CDT as a move to enforce immigration policies based on individuals' viewpoints.
CDT argues that this initiative could lead to punitive actions against lawful residents exercising their right to free speech. "USCIS plans to collect social media identifiers to further its viewpoint-based immigration enforcement policy, which will punish and deport individuals on the basis of their constitutionally-protected expression and chill the lawful speech of citizens and noncitizens alike," the comments state.
The organization also highlights concerns about social media surveillance undermining First Amendment values. They believe that such measures could deter valuable expression among both citizens and noncitizens. Additionally, CDT points out potential issues with the use of artificial intelligence tools in this context, suggesting they may fail and worsen the chilling effects of these policies.
The comments submitted by CDT reflect broader apprehensions about privacy and free speech under these proposed measures.