A Texas judge has temporarily halted President Joe Biden’s immigration policy to streamline citizenship for approximately half a million immigrants married to U.S. citizens. This decision significantly setback one of Biden’s major immigration reforms.
Judge J. Campbell Barker approved a 14-day administrative stay following a lawsuit by Republican attorneys general from 16 states. The attorneys general argue that the policy significantly burdens state finances, affecting healthcare, education, and law enforcement resources.
In June, Biden unveiled this policy to facilitate a smoother path to citizenship for these immigrants. The lawsuit contends that the policy imposes substantial financial strains on the states involved.
Judge Barker emphasized the need for a more detailed examination than the court has managed. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, representing one of the states in the lawsuit, expressed determination on social media platform X, stating, “This is just the first step. We will keep fighting for Texas, our country, and the rule of law.”
As the November presidential election approaches, the Biden administration grapples with immigration, a deeply polarizing issue. The Democrats are trying to balance stricter measures on illegal immigration with efforts to reform the inefficient immigration system.
Former President Donald Trump, running again, has focused his campaign on the narrative of the U.S. facing a migrant “invasion.”
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The contested rules intended to simplify the residency application process by eliminating the need for eligible individuals to leave the U.S. during the process. This would affect those in the U.S. for at least 10 years and married to a U.S. citizen by June 17, 2024, including about 50,000 stepchildren of U.S. citizens.
While the ruling temporarily stops issuing “parole in place” status, it does not prevent the Department of Homeland Security from accepting applications for this status.
Judge Barker clarified that the court has not yet decided on the likely success of the case but has set an expedited hearing schedule. He also indicated that the temporary stay might extend beyond the initial two weeks, possibly through mid-October, as the court proceedings continue.
