NEW ORLEANS: In a significant legal development, a federal appeals court on Friday struck down an Obama-era policy designed to protect immigrants who entered the United States as children without proper documentation. The ruling, which comes just days before President-elect Donald Trump is set to assume office, raises questions about the future of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program and its beneficiaries.
The decision by the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans was unanimous, with a three-judge panel consisting of appointees from Presidents Ronald Reagan, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama. This ruling adds to a series of legal challenges DACA has faced over its decade-long existence, leaving its recipients in a continued state of uncertainty.
Implications for DACA Recipients
DACA currently shields over 500,000 individuals from deportation, allowing them to work and live in the U.S. legally. While the court’s decision does not immediately affect current beneficiaries, it bars the federal government from accepting new applicants. As a result, the program’s pool of recipients is aging and shrinking, further exacerbating its precarious status.
The Biden administration revised DACA regulations in 2022, aiming to strengthen the program through a formal rule-making process. However, the court found these updates insufficient, echoing earlier rulings that deemed the executive branch had overstepped its authority.
Texas Leads Challenge
The legal challenge was led by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and supported by other Republican-led states. Paxton hailed the ruling as a “major victory” and expressed optimism about collaborating with the incoming Trump administration to address immigration policies.
“I look forward to working with President-elect Donald Trump to ensure that the rule of law is restored, and the illegal immigration crisis is finally stopped,” Paxton said in a statement.
Supreme Court Showdown Possible
Friday’s ruling sets the stage for another potential Supreme Court battle. DACA has already appeared twice before the nation’s highest court. In 2020, the Supreme Court ruled 5-4 that the Trump administration’s attempt to terminate DACA violated federal law, allowing the program to continue. However, this new legal challenge could prompt further scrutiny, especially as Trump prepares to implement his immigration agenda.

Origins and Controversies
President Barack Obama introduced DACA in 2012, citing congressional inaction on immigration reform. The program was meant to provide temporary relief for those brought to the U.S. as minors, often referred to as “Dreamers.” Despite widespread public support, DACA has faced consistent opposition from Republican leaders, who argue that it bypasses legislative authority.
In 2015, a similar program for parents of DACA recipients was blocked by the courts, reflecting the ongoing legal tug-of-war over immigration policy.
Uncertain Future for Dreamers
Advocacy groups and recipients have expressed dismay at the ruling, highlighting the continued instability faced by Dreamers. Many beneficiaries, who have built their lives in the U.S., now find themselves in limbo once again.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has not yet commented on the ruling. Meanwhile, immigrant advocates are urging Congress to pass permanent protections, emphasizing the urgency of providing a path to citizenship for Dreamers.
As President-elect Trump prepares to take office, his administration’s stance on DACA will likely play a pivotal role in shaping the future of immigration policy in the United States.