Report Card on USCIS - March 2003 to March 2004
Posted Mar 12, 2004

In March 2004, the Century Foundation (Foundation) issued a report card on the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS's) first year in existence. The Foundation that analyzed DHS's progress is a not-for-profit, nonpartisan organization founded in 1919 that sponsors and supervises the analysis of economic policy, foreign affairs, and domestic political issues. The grading scale ranged from A: excellent (could not be significantly improved) to D: poor (backsliding from earlier conditions). The overall grade for the DHS, after a thorough review of many different aspects of their performance and responsibilities, was a C+.

In analyzing the DHS's role on various functions, certain grades are notable for our MurthyDotCom and MurthyBulletin readers. Specifically of interest are a D rating on processing times and backlog reduction, and a D in working with Congress to develop clear immigration policy and goals. To explain their overall grades for "immigration benefits and duties," the grades were B- in improving customer service at local immigration offices, and a D in reducing backlogs of immigration and naturalization cases. In "immigration enforcement" the Foundation notably gave a B in strengthening entry and exit controls at ports of entry, a C in strengthening entry and exit controls at land borders, and an A in tracking the entry and matriculation of foreign students. Weaknesses were reflected in the grade of C in strengthening entry and exit controls at land borders, as well as in apprehending those who overstay visas. Preventing illegal entry at the borders also is considered to be in need of improvement, with a grade of C-. Other relevant areas of grading included a B in integrating immigration databases, a C in integrating policy development, and a D for DHS management in working with Congress and other key interests to develop clear policy goals.

The Foundation's recommendations strongly encourage adding resources and proper management to reduce backlogs, as it is the Foundation's belief that long delays are unfair to those who are legally entitled to benefits. This independent, nonpartisan report reflects the need for immigration reform. Congress is currently examining these issues. With adequate funding and oversight, perhaps the expectation of specific results within fixed timeframes could all become reality.