Title 42 remains in effect and thousands of immigrants are waiting to see if they will be deported.
The decision by a federal judge in Louisiana to prevent the end of Title 42, a public health rule activated in March 2020 due to the pandemic, represents a major blow to the development of the Joe Biden administration's immigration policy.
On Friday, federal judge Robert Summerhays issued a second temporary injunction blocking the cancellation of Title 42, which in the last 26 months has allowed some 2 million immigrants to be deported, most of whom fled their countries seeking asylum in the United States.
On Friday, 72 hours before the date announced by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to begin phasing out the controversial policy, the Louisiana court upheld the ruling.
It's worth noting that the lawsuit originated from 23 states, led by Arizona, which applauded the ruling and announced they would continue to defend their position to prevent a further migration crisis at the border. The lawsuit arose because the states alleged that the Administration violated the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) by not considering their input on the elimination of Title 42.
On the other hand, the White House Press Office announced that it will respect the decision issued by the Louisiana judge that keeps Title 42 alive, but warned that it will appeal the ruling and continue with preparations to manage the border using legal tools while respecting due process for immigration.
These are other alternatives used by the United States to the health security policy, Title 42, Title 8 of the Immigration Act (INA) and the Remain in Mexico Program (MPP), also known as 'Stay in Mexico', programs that restrict access to asylum in the United States.
Finally, some of those opposing this ruling argue that it causes irreparable harm to migrant families seeking safety. They also state, “Our country can live up to its highest ideals by welcoming women, men, and children in life-threatening circumstances, as we have most recently demonstrated with our support for our Ukrainian brothers and sisters.”.
"Unfortunately, the judge's decision goes against those ideals," said Mary Kay Henry, president of the Service Workers International Union (SEIU).
News report based on information from: Univision