Judge Blocks Biden’s Plan to Legalize Immigrant Spouses of U.S. Citizens

BLOCKED - Judge STOPS Biden Cold!

A federal judge in Texas has temporarily blocked the Biden administration’s plan to grant legal status to undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens, dealing a significant blow to the administration’s immigration reform efforts.

At a Glance

  • Judge J. Campbell Barker halted the “Keeping Families Together” program, which aimed to benefit an estimated 500,000 immigrants.
  • The ruling came in response to a lawsuit from 16 Republican-led states, led by Texas.
  • The program would have provided work permits and deportation protections to eligible immigrants married to U.S. citizens.
  • The Department of Homeland Security will comply with the court’s decision while defending the policy in court.

Judge’s Ruling Puts Brakes on Biden’s Immigration Initiative

U.S. District Judge J. Campbell Barker issued a temporary restraining order blocking the Biden administration’s “Keeping Families Together” program. The initiative, launched just last week, aimed to provide a pathway to legal status for unauthorized immigrants married to American citizens. Judge Barker’s order, valid for 14 days but potentially extendable, came in response to a lawsuit filed by 16 Republican-led states, spearheaded by Texas.

The program would have allowed eligible undocumented spouses to apply for temporary work permits and deportation protections, with a streamlined path to permanent residency and eventual U.S. citizenship. To qualify, applicants needed to be married to a U.S. citizen, have lived in the country for at least 10 years, and pass background checks. The initiative also extended to undocumented stepchildren of U.S. citizens but excluded those with felony convictions.

Legal Battle Unfolds

The lawsuit challenging the policy argues that it misuses immigration parole authority and violates congressional laws. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, leading the charge against the program, celebrated the ruling, stating, “Biden’s unconstitutional scheme would have rewarded over one million illegal aliens with the opportunity for citizenship after breaking our country’s laws – and incentivized countless more.”

“This is just the first step. We are going to keep fighting for Texas, our country, and the rule of law.” – Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton

In response to the ruling, the Department of Homeland Security has stopped approving cases under the program but will continue accepting applications. DHS spokesperson Naree Ketudat emphasized the administration’s commitment to the policy, stating, “Keeping Families Together enables U.S. citizens and their family members to live without fear of separation, consistent with fundamental American values.”

Impact on Families and Future Immigration Policy

The court’s decision has left many mixed-status families in limbo. Under current law, immigrants who entered the country illegally generally must leave and re-enter legally to obtain a green card, potentially triggering a 3- or 10-year ban from re-entering the U.S. The “Keeping Families Together” program aimed to circumvent this requirement, allowing eligible individuals to remain in the country while seeking legal status.

“The Department of Homeland Security will comply with the court’s decision, including continuing to accept applications, while we defend Keeping Families Together in court.” – Naree Ketudat, DHS spokesperson

Immigration advocates have criticized the ruling, arguing it could separate mixed-status families for years or permanently. The decision also highlights the ongoing political and legal battles surrounding immigration reform, with polls indicating it remains a key concern for voters ahead of the November presidential election.

As the legal proceedings continue, with both sides set to file arguments by October 10, the fate of the “Keeping Families Together” program hangs in the balance. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for future immigration policies and the lives of hundreds of thousands of immigrant families across the United States.

Sources

  1. Texas judge blocks Biden plan for migrant spouses
  2. Judge blocks Biden administration from granting legal status to immigrant spouses of U.S. citizens
  3. Judge blocks Biden administration from granting legal status to immigrant spouses of U.S. citizens
  4. Judge halts Biden program offering legal status to undocumented spouses
  5. Judge blocks ‘parole in place’ program for immigrant spouses of US citizens

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