Federal Court Considers Future of DACA Program

The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program is back in court as the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit hears arguments that could reshape the future of the policy protecting over 500,000 undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children. A Texas-led coalition of Republican states argues that DACA was unlawfully created, while the Biden administration defends it, maintaining that it is essential for immigrant families. The Fifth Circuit previously ruled DACA unlawful in 2022 but allowed renewals for current recipients, a status now in limbo as new applications remain barred. The court's decision, expected to take weeks or months, could ultimately reach the Supreme Court again, reflecting ongoing disputes about executive authority in immigration matters. Advocacy groups continue to rally in support of DACA, emphasizing public backing for the program and warning against potential mass deportations linked to broader Republican immigration policies. With legal challenges persisting for over a decade, the outcome of this case could significantly impact the lives of DACA recipients and the broader immigration landscape.