While still slated to end on May 23, a judge will make a determination whether Title 42 stays or goes as part of a lawsuit that was filed to keep it in place.
"We are preparing for the end of Title 42 based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention decision. That does not mean that the border is open beginning on May 23. We continue to enforce the laws of this country. We continue to remove individuals who do not qualify for relief under the laws of this country," Mayorkas explained.
Mayorkas said once Title 42 is removed, they will be able to put punishments on individuals who illegally cross the southern border and do not qualify for asylum, instead of rapid expulsion that does not carry any penalties.
When a reporter asked what message he hoped to send to migrants with the day's event, Mayorkas said the message is to not trust the smugglers.