Class-Action Status Granted Amid Supreme Court Limitations
A federal judge in New Hampshire has granted class-action status to a lawsuit challenging President Donald Trump’s effort to end birthright citizenship. U.S. District Judge Joseph Laplante issued the ruling less than two weeks after the Supreme Court limited universal injunctions. While the Court restricted broad rulings in individual cases, it left the door open for class-action lawsuits covering entire groups.
Nationwide Injunction Temporarily Halts Trump’s Policy
Laplante also blocked the administration from implementing the policy nationwide, citing a likelihood of success for the plaintiffs and the potential for irreparable harm if the injunction were not granted. The administration had planned to begin enforcing the policy in late July. The judge stayed his injunction for one week, allowing the federal government time to appeal.
Advocates Celebrate Court Decision as Safeguard for Constitutional Rights
Civil rights organizations, including the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), celebrated the ruling as a major legal and moral victory. Cody Wofsy of the ACLU’s Immigrant’s Rights Project called it “a huge victory” for protecting all U.S.-born children’s citizenship rights. Devon Chaffee of the ACLU of New Hampshire stressed the importance of constitutional protections not being undermined by executive actions.
Immigrant Groups Cite Relief for Families Facing Uncertainty
Leaders from immigrant rights organizations described the ruling as critical in relieving fear and confusion among families. Aarti Kohli of Asian Law Caucus noted that, since the Supreme Court’s decision, parents had been considering giving birth in different states or even facing deportation worries. Roman Palomares from the League of United Latin American Citizens emphasized that the 14th Amendment’s guarantees are non-negotiable.
Detractors Express Concern Over Judicial Overreach and Executive Authority
While supporters view the ruling as a defense of constitutional rights, critics argue that it undermines the president’s authority over immigration policy. Opponents argue that the decision represents judicial overreach and could lead to broader legal challenges that limit executive actions. The administration is expected to appeal, signaling an ongoing battle in higher courts.
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Class-action suit gains traction to preserve birthright citizenship
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