In a late-night ruling, a federal appeals court extended the temporary halt on Texas’ contentious immigration law, preventing its implementation pending further legal deliberations. The law, which would empower state and local authorities to detain and deport individuals suspected of being undocumented immigrants, faces scrutiny over its constitutionality. The decision to maintain the status quo comes ahead of an April 3 hearing on the law’s legality. The U.S. Justice Department has challenged the law, arguing that it encroaches on federal jurisdiction over immigration. The appeals court emphasized the exclusive federal authority over immigration matters and expressed concerns about the potential consequences of enforcing the Texas law. While civil rights groups welcomed the decision, citing concerns over basic rights, dissenting Judge Andrew Oldham argued for allowing the law to take effect, contending that not all aspects of the legislation are unconstitutional. The ongoing legal battle underscores the complex and divisive nature of immigration policy in the United States.

Source: USA TODAY