The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is moving to significantly expand its collection of biometric data from immigrants — including DNA samples — under a new rule proposed by the Trump administration.

Until now, DHS typically collected limited biometrics, such as fingerprints, and mainly from certain applicants, often only adults. The new regulation would dramatically broaden that authority. It would require biometric data from anyone — regardless of age — who files or is associated with an immigration application or request, unless specifically exempted.

The proposal also allows DHS to collect biometrics not only during formal immigration benefit processing, but also whenever a noncitizen is arrested by immigration officials.

In addition, DHS plans to formally redefine what qualif

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