Republican States Sue to Halt Biden's Immigration Pathway

Sixteen Republican-led states are suing to stop a federal programme aimed at providing nearly half a million immigrants married to U.S. citizens a path to citizenship. The contentious policy, launched by the Biden administration in June, faces criticism as a politically motivated form of amnesty.

Sixteen Republican-led states have filed a lawsuit to halt a Biden administration programme designed to provide a citizenship pathway for nearly half a million immigrants married to U.S. citizens but lacking legal status. The programme, which began accepting applications Monday, offers 'parole in place' to eligible immigrants, allowing them to stay in the U.S. and pursue permanent residency.

The lawsuit, filed Friday, accuses the Biden administration of bypassing Congress for 'blatant political purposes'. Critics argue that the policy, a significant political issue in an election year, is essentially amnesty for those who entered the country illegally. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton claims the plan violates the Constitution and exacerbates the illegal immigration crisis.

Eligible immigrants must meet specific criteria, including continuous U.S. residency for 10 years and a clean criminal history, and pay a $580 application fee. The programme could benefit up to 500,000 people and 50,000 of their children by offering a path to permanent residency and work authorization.

(With inputs from agencies.)