US Courts block new immigration restrictions

Oct. 16, 2019 por Isolda Barrera

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It’s getting harder to keep track of America’s immigration rules. Every so often President Donald Trump’s administration tries to restrict entry for one category of immigrants or another, provoking outrage from Democrats, immigrant advocates and some state governments. Then courts push back on the proposed limitations, often pointing to clumsily written regulations.

But three federal judges from different states have blocked the stricter regulations for non-citizens seeking to immigrate to the US.

One such rule, which had been due to come into force on October 15th, which would have cracked down on low-income foreigners already in America who were seeking green cards or visa extensions.

But on October 11th three federal courts, in California, New York and Washington state, put a hold on it, calling it ill-justified.

Reports claimed that non-citizens applying for a tourist, student, or work visa may face difficulties if they are over 62 years of age, young yet uneducated or un- or under-employed, or suffer from an illness which may impair their future ability to work or study.

Individuals who may request federal aid for food or housing may also be rejected, the report claimed.

Also in recent days Trump announced another measure that would take effect on November 3rd, it was announced that people who apply for permanent residence—those seeking green cards in this way are mostly immigrants living with family members who are American citizens or permanent legal residents—must prove they can pay for private health insurance, or have the resources to pay directly for foreseeable medical costs, within 30 days of arrival. If not, they can be denied entry.

The August regulations in question were "enforcing this longstanding law to prevent aliens from depending on public benefit programs," an August 12 statement from the White House said. "The Immigration and Nationality Act makes clear that those seeking to come to the United States cannot be a public charge."

It was mentioned that for many years, being able to be self-sufficient has been a legal requirement for years, and should not be a burden on American taxpayers. The law will only be more strictly enforced and will be looking for the support necessary.

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