The program, launched in June 2024, sought to address the status of roughly half a million undocumented immigrants in the U.S. by offering temporary work permits, deportation protections, and a pathway to permanent residency for those married to U.S. citizens As per Boundless. Applicants had to meet specific criteria, including living in the U.S. for at least 10 years and passing a background check. Felony convictions rendered applicants ineligible.
Now According to CBS News, A federal judge in Texas has temporarily blocked the Biden administration’s “Keeping Families Together” immigration policy, which aimed to provide legal status to undocumented immigrants married to U.S. citizens. This decision comes after a lawsuit filed by 16 Republican-led states, challenging the policy’s legality.
Legal Challenges from Republican States
The policy faced immediate pushback from Texas and other Republican-led states, which argued that the program incentivized illegal immigration and misused the government’s parole authority. These states have historically opposed most of Biden’s immigration initiatives, claiming they undermine federal immigration laws.
Court’s Decision: What’s Next?
District Court Judge J. Campbell Barker, appointed by former President Donald Trump, issued an administrative order halting the approval of applications under the program for 14 days, with a possibility of extension. While the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) can still accept applications, they are prohibited from granting parole during this period.
Future of the Policy
The DHS remains committed to defending the policy in court, stating that it upholds fundamental American values by promoting family unity. However, the legal battle will likely continue, as Republicans challenge the policy’s long-term viability.
Conclusion
The temporary block on the Keeping Families Together policy underscores the intense debate over immigration reform in the U.S., with mixed-status families caught in the middle. The policy’s future will depend on ongoing court rulings and the Biden administration’s ability to defend it against opposition.
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