ExecutiveOrdersEO
Proc 9984ProclamationTrump 45 · R

Proclamation 9984

Suspension of Entry as Immigrants and Nonimmigrants of Persons Who Pose a Risk of Transmitting 2019 Novel Coronavirus and Other Appropriate Measures To Address This Risk

This proclamation suspends entry of immigrants and nonimmigrants who were physically present in mainland China during the 14 days before attempted U.S. entry, effective February 2, 2020, with exceptions for lawful permanent residents, close family members of U.S. citizens/residents, and certain other categories. It directs agencies to implement visa restrictions, prevent boarding of covered travelers, and facilitate medical screening and quarantine.

Federal Register Open PDF 85 FR 6709

Impact dates

  1. Subsequent HHS reviews every 15 days thereafter

  2. HHS Secretary first review and recommendation to President

  3. Proclamation effective at 5:00 p.m. EST

Key directives

  • Suspend entry of aliens physically present in mainland China within prior 14 days
  • Secretary of State to implement visa procedures in consultation with DHS Secretary
  • Secretary of Homeland Security to implement entry procedures in consultation with State
  • Secretaries of State, Transportation, and Homeland Security to prevent boarding of covered aliens on U.S.-bound aircraft
  • DHS Secretary to establish standards for seaports and between ports of entry
  • DHS to prioritize removal of aliens who circumvent proclamation through fraud or illegal entry
  • DHS Secretary to regulate travel and direct air carriers to facilitate medical screening and quarantine
  • HHS Secretary to review every 15 days and recommend continuation, modification, or termination

Who is ordered

Timeline

Immediate

  • Proclamation effective at 5:00 p.m. EST on February 2, 2020
  • Suspension of entry for covered aliens begins
  • Secretary of HHS first review due within 15 days of signing (by February 15, 2020)

Near term (90d)

  • HHS Secretary reviews every 15 days whether to recommend continuation, modification, or termination
  • CDC and DHS establish screening and quarantine procedures
  • State Department and DHS implement visa and entry procedures

Long term

  • Proclamation remains in effect until terminated by President
  • Potential precedent for future public health-based entry restrictions

Risks & tensions

  • Broad delegation to agency heads for exceptions creates implementation uncertainty
  • Potential tension between entry suspension and asylum protections in section 2(b)
  • Economic impact on travel and tourism sectors
  • Diplomatic friction with China given targeted geographic scope
  • Resource strain on CDC and DHS for enhanced screening and quarantine capacity
Proclamation 9984: Suspension of Entry as Immigrants and Nonimmigrants of Persons Who Pose a Risk of Transmitting 2019 Novel Coronavirus and Other Appropriate Measures To Address This Risk · Executive Orders