Amidst the ongoing debate over US immigration reform, a Texas judge has temporarily halted a policy that would have made it easier for the spouses of US citizens to obtain legal status in the country. The policy, introduced by President Joe Biden in June, aimed to streamline the pathway to citizenship for around 500,000 immigrants married to US nationals.
The decision to pause the policy came after Republican attorneys general from 16 states challenged the Biden administration’s move, citing concerns about the financial burden on public services such as healthcare, education, and law enforcement.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton expressed his support for the court order, emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law in immigration matters. The Biden administration, facing scrutiny over its handling of immigration issues, continues to navigate the complexities of reforming the country’s immigration system.
Despite the setback, the government will still accept applications under the new policy, but no approvals will be granted until the temporary stay is lifted. The court’s decision has sparked mixed reactions, with immigrant rights groups calling it an “extreme measure” that hampers the hopes of families seeking legal status in the US.
