On June 23, 2016 the Supreme Court released a 4-4 split decision in the case of United States v. Texas. The case was brought by Texas and many other states challenging President Obama’s executive orders for Deferred Action for Parents of Americans and Lawful Permanent Residents (DAPA) and the extension of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). The Supreme Court’s decision means that the ruling of the preliminary injunction given by the lower courts to stop the program will continue. It is possible that the case could be back to the Supreme Court in which it would be heard by 9 justices and not 8 as this case was due to the passing of Justice Scalia earlier this year.
What does this mean for the existing DACA program? The Supreme Court’s decision does not stop or change the existing DACA program initiated in 2012.
You should consult with an immigration attorney if you have any questions regarding existing DACA eligibility or any other immigration benefits that may be available for you or your family.
