A federal judge in Texas has again ruled against the
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, stating that both the original 2012 version and a revised version are unlawful. U.S. District Judge Andrew Hanen reaffirmed his 2021 decision, which blocked new DACA applications but allowed renewals for those who received status before July 16, 2021. The ruling prevents the Department of Homeland Security from fully implementing the program, although it can still accept — but not approve — new applications.
The decision follows a legal challenge by several Republican-led states, arguing the program imposes financial burdens. The Biden administration criticized the ruling and pledged to continue defending DACA in court.
