What’s New?
On Monday, a group of organizations filed a lawsuit challenging the administration’s rule that would require millions to register with the federal government (CHIRLA v. DHS). The rule, which is set to take effect on April 11, also requires non-citizens to always carry proof of their registration with them. Failure to register or “show your papers” would be a crime.
In a statement, Michelle Lapointe, legal director at the American Immigration Council, who is counsel on the lawsuit, said:
“This rule is an invitation for widespread abuse. We’re talking about a new reality in the United States, in which anyone perceived to be an immigrant would have to carry their identity documents any time they leave the house and be prepared to show them to law enforcement on demand, at risk of being arrested.”
What Else?
This week, the administration admitted an "administrative error" when they transported Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland dad who was granted protection from deportation in 2019, to a notorious prison in El Salvador. Abrego Garcia was among the 137 individuals hastily removed to El Salvador following the administration’s enactment of a 1700s wartime law last month. Despite the admission of error and grave danger Abrego Garcia faces, the administration has refused to work with the Salvadoran government to return Abrego Garcia to the United States.
Meanwhile, the lawsuit challenging the President’s enactment of the wartime law, J.G.G. v. Trump, has escalated to the Supreme Court (SCOTUS). The administration has requested that SCOTUS lift the lower court’s order, which blocks further removals of individuals under this law. Read this previous State of Welcome for more background.
Speaking of legal challenges, in Pacito v. Trump, the lawsuit challenging the refugee ban, the administration has been ordered to resettle refugees who have been approved to travel to the United States and to reinstate cooperative agreements with resettlement agencies. However, in this week’s status report, the administration noted that it intends to suspend the agreements after reinstating them.
What’s Next?
On Easter Sunday, April 20, a report is due on the resumption of the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) by Department of State Secretary Rubio and Department of Homeland Security Secretary Noem to the President. This report is part of the administration’s Executive Order suspending USRAP.
What’s Needed:
Here are three ways you can ensure our communities remain committed to welcoming people seeking safety during this difficult time.
- Attend. Join LSSNCA on April 29 for a virtual Town Hall.
- Donate. The administration’s termination of agreements with resettlement agencies has created a substantial funding gap for refugee services. Your financial gift will help support our new neighbors.
- Donate Goods. By donating in-kind items to the Resource Center, you provide our new neighbors and neighbors in need with essential goods.
What’s Happened - A timeline of events since January 20, 2025.
