KJZZ is a service of Rio Salado College,
and Maricopa Community Colleges

Copyright © 2024 KJZZ/Rio Salado College/MCCCD
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Immigrant Activists Sue To Block Asylum Ban

Immigrant right groups are suing President Donald Trump, and a host of other federal officials, over the government’s new rule and proclamation on asylum seekers.

The federal case was filed in Northern California District Court hours after Trump signed the rule to deny asylum to some people who enter the U.S. illegally at the southern border into effect. 

Led by attorneys from the American Civil Liberties Union, immigrant activists have asked a federal judge declare the rule illegal and block the government from enforcing it.

They argued in court documents that Congress was clear in saying anyone can apply for asylum, regardless of where they entered the country. They also argue that the rule violates the Immigration and Nationality Act and federal law on procedure.

U.S. Department of Justice officials have said the rule is not retroactive, it will be in effect for 90 days, and it does not apply to unaccompanied children or people who seek asylum at ports of entry.

ACLU Asylum Lawsuit 

Matthew Casey has won Edward R. Murrow awards for hard news and sports reporting since he joined KJZZ as a senior field correspondent in 2015.