The Trump administration is expanding travel restrictions to block entry for certain noncitizens who may have been exposed to the Ebola virus.
The new policy targets legal permanent residents who have recently been in three African nations: the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan.
Previously, the ban applied primarily to noncitizens without permanent residency status. The expansion now includes green card holders traveling from those regions.
The decision was announced jointly by the White House and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Officials cite the need to prevent the spread of Ebola into the United States.
The affected countries are currently experiencing outbreaks of the deadly virus. Public health experts have noted that containment efforts in those regions remain challenging.
The administration has not specified how long the expanded restrictions will remain in effect. Enforcement will begin immediately for all travelers arriving from the designated countries.
Critics argue the measure may be too broad and could disrupt families. Supporters say it is a necessary step to protect domestic public health.
