Washington, Feb. 20 -- Congresswoman Chellie Pingree issued the following press release:

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today announced a new proposed rule that would pause work permit issuance for people with pending asylum applications. This change represents a sweeping erosion to employment authorization for asylum seekers. Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) condemned the proposal, releasing the following statement: The new rule announced by DHS is one of the cruelest changes to our immigration policies that I've seen during my time in Congress. It will have devastating consequences for thousands of Mainers and millions of people across the country. This isn't about 'restoring integrity' to our asylum system. It's...