A federal judge in Texas has put a pause on a Biden administration policy that would give spouses of U.S. citizens legal status without having to leave the country, marking a temporary setback to a major presidential action. Led by Republican attorneys general, 16 states challenged the program, arguing against the potential benefits for over half a million immigrants and their children. The judge’s decision, which will last at least two weeks, comes after the Department of Homeland Security started accepting applications the previous week.
The policy offers a pathway to citizenship for spouses of U.S. citizens without legal status, aiming to prevent family separation and shield them from deportation. However, the ruling has been met with criticism and accusations of bypassing Congress for political reasons. Eligibility for the program includes living in the U.S. for over 10 years, having no security threats or disqualifying criminal history, and being married to a citizen before June 17. Applicants must submit a detailed application and pay a fee, with the possibility of obtaining work authorization during the process if approved.
Despite the temporary halt, advocates for the policy argue that Texas should not have the power to determine the fate of hundreds of thousands of U.S. citizens and their immigrant spouses without considering their reality. With a decision expected shortly before the presidential election or a new administration taking office, the outcome of this case remains uncertain amidst the ongoing debate surrounding immigration policies in the United States.
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