AGs support the federal immigration policy known as “Keeping Families Together

Letitia James, the attorney general of New York, and nineteen other attorneys general submitted a brief in favor of the federal Keeping Families Together program on October 25. It permits certain U.S. citizens’ illegal wives and stepchildren to petition for permanent residence without having to leave the nation. 16 states filed a lawsuit against DHS and federal officials on August 23, alleging that Keeping Families Together promotes illegal immigration and circumvents Congressional authority. The lawsuit contended that DHS did not adequately solicit public opinion prior to implementing the program and that federal law forbids providing benefits to unauthorized immigrants. According to the plaintiffs, when crime and social problems increase, so may the expenditures of law enforcement. Keeping Families Together is a public benefit that strengthens communities by putting the welfare of children first, who shouldn’t be separated from their parents, according to the attorneys general amicus brief from other states. Additionally, it permits noncitizens to work, which boosts the economy, broadens the tax base, and alleviates labor shortages. Additionally, they noted that the federal government has a lengthy history of minimizing family separation through parole programs. The lawsuit is scheduled to be heard by the Eastern District of Texas on November 5.