A federal judge in Maryland has temporarily blocked the Trump administration from conducting immigration enforcement at certain places of worship. The ruling, which applies only to a handful of Quaker, Baptist, and Sikh congregations, argues that the policy violates religious freedom protections.
Judge Blocks Immigration Enforcement at Select Religious Sites
A U.S. District Judge in Maryland has issued an injunction against the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement actions at specific churches and temples. The ruling, issued by Judge Theodore Chuang, applies to Quaker, Baptist, and Sikh places of worship that sued over the policy change.
Trump Administration Lifts Restrictions on Sensitive Locations
The Biden administration had imposed restrictions on immigration enforcement at “sensitive” sites, including churches, schools, and hospitals. However, the Trump administration reversed these limitations, arguing that such locations should not serve as safe havens for undocumented immigrants.
Religious Groups Argue Violation of Religious Freedom
The plaintiffs, including Quaker congregations from several states and a Sikh temple in California, argued that the new policy directly interferes with their religious mission to provide sanctuary to immigrants. Judge Chuang agreed, stating that the policy places a “substantial burden” on religious freedom.
Legal Basis of the Ruling
Judge Chuang ruled that the Trump administration’s policy likely violates the First Amendment and the Religious Freedom Restoration Act. His decision emphasized that religious institutions have the constitutional right to welcome worshippers without government interference.
Future Implications of the Case
The ruling is limited in scope, affecting only the specific religious groups that sued. However, it could set a precedent for broader legal challenges against immigration enforcement at places of worship. The Trump administration may appeal the decision, prolonging the legal battle.
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