Murphy Woodhouse/KJZZ

Several students walk along the border wall in Nogales, Sonora.

As part of a recent deal, more Central Americans seeking asylum in the U.S. will be returned to Mexican while their cases proceed.

The Migrant Protection Protocols, or “remain in Mexico” program, is set to expand to more Mexican border cities. That was a part of the recent U.S.-Mexico deal that prevented the imposition of tariffs on Mexican imports. Nogales, Sonora, Mayor Jesus Pujol has not heard if his city will be among those receiving them, but says he’ll need some help if it is.

“Obviously there would be additional costs that aren’t included in the city’s budget, which could make things difficult,” he said.

But he also expects assistance from the Mexican government if the program is implemented there. Migrant shelters in the city are already close to capacity, he said. The city is also hoping to open its own shelter.