On June 27, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a pivotal ruling in Trump v. CASA, Inc., stating that universal injunctions—orders that apply nationwide rather than to just the plaintiffs in a case—“likely exceed” the equitable authority granted to federal courts by Congress.
This 6–3 decision curtails the ability of lower courts to block federal immigration policies on a broad scale. Specifically, the Court granted a partial stay of universal injunctions issued to halt the enforcement of Executive Order 14160, which sought to deny birthright citizenship. The Court’s ruling did not address the constitutionality of the Executive Order itself but focused on the scope of judicial relief.
What Does This Mean for Foreign Nationals and Their Families?
This ruling may significantly reshape immigration litigation strategy. Previously, universal injunctions allowed immigrant rights organizations to halt federal policies across the board, providing protection beyond the plaintiffs in a specific lawsuit. Now, those protections may only apply to the formal parties in a given case unless class-action status is achieved.
Justice Sotomayor, joined by Justices Jackson and Kagan, delivered a scathing dissent:
“No right is safe in the new legal regime the Supreme Court creates… That holding renders constitutional guarantees meaningful in name only for any individuals who are not parties to a lawsuit.”
Her dissent underscores concerns that future policies—regardless of administration—could target core constitutional rights without the immediate check of a nationwide injunction.
Broader Implications on birthright citizenship
For individuals and families navigating the U.S. immigration system, this Supreme Court decision that signals a need for proactive legal counsel. It places greater emphasis on the importance of direct legal action for those affected by restrictive policies. Relief is less likely to come through broad court orders benefiting non-parties and more likely to require targeted, strategic litigation.
At Ahluwalia Law Offices, we are closely monitoring this shift in the federal judiciary’s approach. For families concerned about their children’s birthright citizenship or the future of policies stemming from Executive Order 14160, you can reach out for personalized legal advice.
