This program is a part of President Biden's efforts to support noncitizen spouses and children of U.S. citizens. In late August it was temporarily blocked by a federal court in Texas. This injunction came as a part of the Texas v. Department of Homeland Security case, Texas and other states were challenging the program's legality.

"Keeping Families Together" was designed to grant Parole in Place to noncitizens spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens, allowing them to stay in the U.S. while applying for legal status.

KEY POINTS OF THE INJUNCTION

- TEMPORARY HALT

The court's ruling immediately halted the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) from approving any new PIP applications under the "Keeping Families Together" program for 14 days.

- APPLICATIONS STILL ACCEPTED

While the DHS cannot approve any new applications during the injuction, they will continue to accept applications and schedule biometrics appointments for future processing.

- NO IMPACT ON PREVIOUS APPROVALS

Any applications approved before the injunction was filed remain valid. Those already granted PIP can apply for immigration benefits such as work authorization or adjustment of status to lawful permanent residence.