Addressing a Backlog of Concern Reports
HHS records, reviewed by Senator Grassley, indicate that over 65,000 reports related to unaccompanied migrant children were either ignored or dismissed during the Biden administration.
These reports included nearly 7,000 cases of suspected human trafficking and approximately 2,000 instances of potential fraud.
Since January 20, the Trump administration has prioritized resolving these cases, with HHS reporting progress on over a quarter of the backlog and making dozens of arrests.
In April, HHS acknowledged the backlog and committed to addressing the outstanding reports to ensure the safety of vulnerable children.
Efforts to Protect Unaccompanied Minors
During the Biden administration, approximately 500,000 unaccompanied migrant children entered the United States, often placed with sponsors after relaxed background check protocols.
Concerns have been raised about the adequacy of these placements, with HHS confirming that at least 85,000 children could not be located after being placed with sponsors.
Grassley has emphasized the need for accountability, stating, “I applaud the Trump administration for its swift action to protect unaccompanied migrant children by addressing the concerning reports the Biden-Harris administration shelved.”
Current HHS leadership, under Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., is working to strengthen oversight and ensure the safety of these children through thorough investigations and improved processes.
Congressional Oversight and Transparency Challenges
Grassley has raised concerns about transparency, alleging that HHS under the Biden administration obstructed his inquiries into the unaccompanied minors program. In a letter to Secretary Kennedy dated May 27, 2025, Grassley wrote, “HHS under Secretary Becerra obstructed my investigation and instructed contractors and grantees not to answer.”
He emphasized that his inquiry aims to assess the scope of child trafficking and exploitation within the program.
HHS has since acknowledged the need for improved coordination and is collaborating with Congress to address these concerns, though challenges remain in fully resolving the backlog and ensuring accountability.
The ongoing efforts by HHS and congressional oversight aim to address past shortcomings and strengthen safeguards for unaccompanied migrant children, with a focus on accountability and child safety.
