Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area (LSSNCA) celebrates the recent ruling by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, which reaffirms the right of individuals to seek asylum at the U.S.-Mexico border. The decision upholds the findings of the lower court ruling that declared the government’s systematic turnbacks – or “metering” – of people seeking asylum at ports of entry along the U.S.-Mexico border unlawful. The ruling also challenges recent restrictions, including the Biden administration's June 2024 regulations, which further curtailed access to asylum.  

“U.S. policies like ‘metering’ have unjustly denied people the opportunity to seek refuge, often leaving them stranded in dangerous conditions,” said LSSNCA CEO Kristyn Peck. “Yesterday’s decision reinforces what we know to be true: every person fleeing violence and persecution has the legal right to a fair and meaningful process to request asylum, no matter where they are from or how they arrive at the border.” 

This ruling is a crucial victory – ahead of an important election with immigration at the forefront - as it restores faith in a system that should prioritize protecting human lives and upholding international obligations. The decision sends a clear message that the United States must provide a fair and humane process for all those seeking asylum and ensures that those fleeing danger will no longer be denied the opportunity to find safety and rebuild their lives