In a late-night ruling, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals has maintained its block on a controversial Texas immigration law, Senate Bill 4. The 2-1 decision reaffirms the court’s previous stance, preventing the law from taking effect as the state continues to appeal a ruling against it. SB4, if enacted, would empower Texas law enforcement to arrest suspected undocumented immigrants and enable state judges to order their deportation. However, the court emphasized that such matters fall under federal jurisdiction, citing the Executive Branch’s discretion in handling immigration enforcement. Chief Judge Priscilla Richman highlighted the federal government’s authority in pursuing non-citizens, echoing a precedent set in a 2023 case. The law’s provisions, including deportations via state orders and misdemeanor charges for illegal entry, were contested in court, with Texas arguing for its alignment with federal immigration enforcement. The Justice Department, on the other hand, deemed it a violation of federal authority, expressing concerns over potential border chaos. While Judges Richman and Irma Carrillo Ramirez voted to maintain the block, Judge Andrew Oldham dissented, advocating for the law’s implementation.

Source: FoxNews