Immigration Reform News 2016: Justice Antonin Scalia's Death Raises Uncertainty for DAPA Immigration Case Hearing
As immigration remains a hot topic in the political realm, the death of Justice Antonin Scalia marks the beginning of a long and strenuous journey for the DAPA immigration case hearing.
According to FOX 17 News, the DAPA case, or deferred action for parents of Americans and lawful permanent residents, is supposed to be heard by the Supreme Court this spring, but due to the ongoing debates regarding who should replace the late Justice, it seems the hearing's completion may be uncertain.
People rallied at the Hispanic Center of West Michigan on Monday to request for support on the DAPA, but until the debate is settled regarding a new Justice, families may not see developments yet.
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The DAPA will suspend about 5 million deportations of undocumented parents if it is enacted. Aside from the hold on deportations, it will also allow for undocumented immigrants to receive work permits.
While there are many immigrants who support DAPA, it was dubbed unconstitutional by the federal court and court of appeals. Now in the hands of the Supreme Court but with no certainty of a hearing in spring, affected families fear the possibility of seeing their relatives get deported to their countries of origin.
Professor Doug Koopman of the Calvin College American Politics said Scalia's death puts the case on a hanging position. "If the Supreme Court does not hear, or does not rule, or has a 4-4 decision, that lower court decision stands. Therefore, at least in that jurisdiction of the United States, that DAPA will not be enforced," he explained.
Koopman also doubts that Scalia will be replaced this year, especially putting into consideration the late Justice's advocacies and positions in various aspects of the society.
Meanwhile, community leaders continue to call for support, asking the masses and higher powers to push for enactment of the DAPA. While the case remains at stake until Scalia is replaced, affected immigrants are hoping that the Supreme Court will find their cause reasonable.
