A federal judge has halted the Biden administration’s plan to legalize undocumented immigrant spouses of U.S. citizens.
At a Glance
- A federal judge in Texas temporarily blocked the Biden administration from granting legal status to unauthorized immigrants married to American citizens.
- The ruling was in response to a request from 16 Republican-led states challenging the new policy.
- District Court Judge J. Campbell Barker’s order halts the immigration program known as Keeping Families Together.
- The program aimed to benefit an estimated half a million immigrants living in the U.S. without legal status.
- The policy allows unauthorized immigrants married to U.S. citizens to apply for temporary work permits and deportation protections.
Federal Judge Halts Biden Immigration Plan
A federal judge in Texas has temporarily blocked the Biden administration from granting legal status to unauthorized immigrants married to U.S. citizens. The ruling, issued by District Court Judge J. Campbell Barker, targets the “Keeping Families Together” immigration program that aimed to protect undocumented spouses of American citizens from deportation and offer a pathway to legal status.
The decision resulted from a lawsuit filed by 16 Republican-led states, challenging the Biden administration’s policy. The states argued that the plan rewards illegal immigration and misuses immigration parole authority. Judge Barker’s order is temporarily valid for 14 days, with an option for extension, pending further arguments from both sides.
Texas Judge Blocks Biden Plan to Grant Legal Status to Spouses of Citizenshttps://t.co/IqVNEw3ulv
— RedState (@RedState) August 27, 2024
Implications for Affected Families
The “Keeping Families Together” program was designed to allow unauthorized immigrants married to U.S. citizens to apply for temporary work permits and deportation protections. The program included provisions for undocumented stepchildren of U.S. citizens but excluded those with felony convictions. Eligibility criteria required applicants to have lived in the U.S. for at least 10 years and undergo background checks.
“Keeping Families Together enables U.S. citizens and their family members to live without fear of separation, consistent with fundamental American values,” Ketudat said. “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.”
The Department of Homeland Security has paused approving new cases under the program but will continue accepting applications. DHS spokesperson Naree Ketudat confirmed the agency’s compliance with the court’s decision while defending the program’s intent and legality.
Judge in Texas orders pause on Biden program that offers legal status to spouses of US citizens: https://t.co/gw7qruFqvb pic.twitter.com/d3dvazxr6N
— WAFB (@WAFB) August 27, 2024
Political and Legal Controversy
This move exemplifies the ongoing political and legal battles over immigration reform in the United States. The Biden administration argues that the program promotes family unity, whereas opposing states claim it rewards illegal immigration. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, a vocal critic of Biden’s policies, supports the ruling, highlighting concerns over the misuse of immigration parole authority and the implications for state resources.
“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
Republicans argue the policy provides amnesty for undocumented individuals, while proponents emphasize the importance of keeping families together. This contentious issue underscores the broader debates over executive authority and immigration laws, particularly ahead of the upcoming presidential elections where immigration stands as a pivotal issue for voters.
Sources
1. Texas judge blocks Biden plan for migrant spouses
