The National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC) strongly condemns the Trump administration’s decision to “reconsider” the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. This reconsideration, which includes substantial restrictions to an already-limited program, follows a previous attempt at cancelling the program, which was struck down by the Supreme Court in June.

Last week, a federal court ordered the administration to begin accepting new applications, in line with the Supreme Court decision. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) instead dragged its feet until the issuance of this memo, which shortens the renewal period for current DACA holders to one year, and prevents new applicants from receiving DACA. Advance parole, briefly considered a possibility after the Supreme Court decision, will continue to not be granted except under “exceptional circumstances.”

Managing attorney Vanessa Esparza-Lopez, who oversees NIJC’s DACA program, responded to today’s memo with the following statement: “It is unconscionable for the Trump administration to circumvent the rulings of a federal court in order to once again thrust into uncertainty the families and communities who rely on DACA to stay together and for protection from unjust deportations. In the midst of a national conversation about systemic abuses faced by Black communities and communities of color, this administration has once again shown its disdain by chipping away at their rights.”

NIJC advises DACA recipients that any new DACA renewal will only be valid for one year from its issuance. USCIS is also not accepting new DACA applications, and anyone who has submitted an application since the Supreme Court decision should consult with their attorney about having their filing fees refunded.

NIJC will continue to update our guidance to ensure communities and families stay safe. Visit immigrantjustice.org/daca.