Greyhound announced Friday it will no longer allow Border Patrol agents without a warrant to board its buses and check the immigration status of travelers.
The decision came after a leaked Border Patrol memo contradicted claims by Greyhound that the company didn’t have a choice and was compelled by federal law to allow the checks.
The company said in a statement it would inform the Department of Homeland Security that it does not consent to unwarranted searches on its buses or in areas of terminals that are not open to the public.
The company said its drivers and bus station workers would be given new training regarding the new policy and that it would place stickers on all its buses clearly stating that it does not consent to the searches.
“Our primary concern is the safety of our customers and team members, and we are confident these changes will lead to an improved experience for all parties involved,” the statement said.
Greyhound had been criticized for allowing the checks to occur, especially on buses that were not traveling near international borders.
The company is facing a lawsuit in California alleging that it violated consumer protection laws by facilitating raids.
The Border Patrol has insisted previously that it does not profile riders and the checks are a needed measure against human trafficking, narcotics and illegal immigration.
The Border Patrol memo, which was obtained by the Associated Press, said the Fourth Amendment prevents agents from boarding buses and questioning passengers without a warrant or the consent of the company.
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