A federal judge dismissed a lawsuit by the Department of Justice (DOJ) challenging a Circuit Court block against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) courthouse arrests. The decision reflects growing resistance towards immigration enforcement operations conducted at state and local courthouses. The federal judge argued the DOJ or any other government organization can’t force states to cooperate with enforcement efforts like courthouse arrests.

The DOJ initially filled a lawsuit against a 2020 New York law called the Protect Our Courts Act. The act prohibits federal agents from making arrests in state and local courthouses. Federal immigration courts aren’t covered by the law.

The DOJ argued such a law was unconstitutional because they obstructed federal immigration enforcement efforts. The department also argued such a law posed a national security risk. The federal judge reviewing the case was unconvinced, citing the ICE courthouse arrests as a violation of the boundaries set by the Tenth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

Since January 2025, the government has made repeated efforts to expand the scope of immigration enforcement operations. In June, the government issued new guidelines directing immigration agents pursue detainment operations without involving local from local authorities. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently proposed expanding biometric collection authority to all individuals involved with immigration benefits requests regardless of citizenship status.

As always, Immigration USA actively monitors ongoing U.S. immigration news. If you have questions about any U.S. immigration related issue, please contact us. Working with an experienced attorney ensures you get the right advice based on the most recent laws and policy updates. In an ever-evolving immigration landscape, we’re with you every step of the way.