DHS

Federal Judge Imposes Restrictions on DHS Actions Against Journalists in Los Angeles

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A federal judge has placed limitations on the Department of Homeland Security’s use of force against journalists in Los Angeles, a decision that underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding press freedom in the United States. The ruling comes in response to incidents during recent protests, where reporters faced aggressive treatment by law enforcement officers. The ruling seeks to ensure that journalists can cover civil demonstrations without fear of retribution. In the order, the judge highlighted the critical role of a free press in a democratic society, emphasizing that media personnel should be able to operate unhindered … Read more

Federal Court Blocks DHS Access to Medicaid Data, Safeguarding Patient Privacy Amid Immigration Enforcement Concerns

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SEATTLE — A federal judge has issued a preliminary injunction preventing the Department of Homeland Security from utilizing Medicaid data obtained from Washington and 19 other states for immigration enforcement activities. This decision also restricts the Department of Health and Human Services from sharing Medicaid information with DHS. The injunction was granted in response to a lawsuit initiated by a coalition led by Washington and California on July 1. The suit claims that the transfer of Medicaid data violates legal protections and seeks to halt any further use of this information for immigration purposes. Washington … Read more

Federal Court Blocks DHS from Using Medicaid Data for Immigration Enforcement, Safeguarding Patient Privacy in 20 States

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SAN FRANCISCO — A federal judge has issued a temporary ruling preventing the U.S. Department of Homeland Security from utilizing Medicaid data from Washington and 19 additional states for immigration enforcement. The preliminary injunction, delivered by U.S. District Judge Vince Chhabria, addresses a multistate lawsuit filed in Northern California, citing inadequate protocol by federal agencies regarding the sharing of sensitive health information. Judge Chhabria’s decision indicated a need for adherence to proper decision-making processes when altering policies tied to personal health data. As a result of the injunction, the U.S. Department of Health and Human … Read more

DHS Fast-Tracks Border Wall Construction in Arizona and New Mexico with New Waivers Ignoring Environmental Laws

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The Department of Homeland Security has taken significant steps to expedite border wall construction in Arizona and New Mexico by issuing three new waivers affecting approximately 36 miles of the project. These waivers, approved by DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, allow the agency to sidestep certain environmental regulations to facilitate the building process. The waivers enable the Department to bypass laws such as the National Environmental Policy Act, which is designed to ensure thorough environmental assessments. By using this authority, DHS aims to minimize potential administrative delays in constructing physical barriers and related infrastructure at the … Read more