Washington, D.C. – Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito has extended a temporary order blocking Texas law enforcement from arresting and detaining migrants suspected of crossing the U.S. southern border without authorization under the state’s strict immigration law, known as SB4. The administrative stay, which had previously been set to expire on Wednesday, has now been extended through Monday, March 18.
SB4, one of the toughest state immigration laws in U.S. history, allows Texas law enforcement at the state and local levels to arrest, jail, and prosecute migrants on state charges for entering or reentering the U.S. outside of an official port of entry. It also gives state judges the authority to require migrants to return to Mexico instead of facing prosecution.
The Biden administration has opposed the law, arguing that it interferes with the federal government’s jurisdiction over immigration policy, violates U.S. asylum law, and strains relations with the Mexican government. Texas, on the other hand, contends that SB4 is necessary to address unlawful border crossings.
Last month, U.S. District Court Judge David Ezra blocked Texas from enforcing SB4, agreeing with the Biden administration’s argument that the law conflicts with federal law and the U.S. Constitution. Judge Ezra also rejected Texas’ claim that the state is defending itself against an “invasion” of migrants and cartel members.
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit temporarily paused Judge Ezra’s ruling at the request of Texas. Justice Alito then suspended that order on administrative grounds, initially until Wednesday and now until next week. The 5th Circuit is scheduled to hear arguments on the constitutionality of SB4 on April 3.
The extension of the temporary stay by Justice Alito provides a significant development in the ongoing legal battle over Texas’ immigration law. The decision to prolong the pause allows for further consideration of the complex issues surrounding immigration and the balance of power between the federal government and the states.
This extension comes amidst a heated national debate over immigration policy and the treatment of migrants at the southern border. The situation has become increasingly challenging for the Biden administration, as it continues to face criticism and calls for stronger border security measures.
The ultimate outcome of the legal challenge against SB4 will have far-reaching implications not only for Texas but also for the broader national immigration framework. As the case progresses, the country will closely monitor the arguments put forth by both sides and await the court’s decision that could shape the future of immigration policy in the United States.