11/07/2024 Update on Biden’s Parole Program (“Keeping Families Together”)
What is the Keeping Families Together Program?
On June 18, 2024, the Biden administration announced a program to promote family unity in the U.S. The program allows certain spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens to request Parole in Place (PIP). PIP does not provide legal status in the United States, but can provide up to three years of parole in the U.S. PIP approval can also make certain noncitizens eligible to apply for permanent residency without having to leave the U.S.
Latest Update on the Biden’s PIP Program
After the program was announced, a group of states, led by the State of Texas, quickly filed a lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
On November 7, 2024, the federal judge ruled that the Biden administration did not have authority to issue the Keeping Families Together Parole in Place process. The program was found unlawful and cannot continue. As of now, we do not know whether the decision will be appealed. However, because Trump will be the next president, the program is unlikely to continue, even if the decision is appealed. The Judge’s full order can be found here.
We are saddened by this decision and know the impact will be felt by thousands of families. We will continue monitoring the case, and will post any updates.
