Boston judge blocks Trump rule limiting foreign student and journalist visa stays

Ruling on national security claims

Judge F Dennis Saylor ruled that the administration relied on exceptionally weak grounds to adopt the policy. The judge found the connection between the rule and national security concerns was exceptionally attenuated. He noted the agency built its case almost entirely on a small handful of anecdotes.

Legal obligations and alternatives

Saylor determined the department did not adhere to legal obligations regarding policy changes. The judge stated officials failed to consider less burdensome alternatives before implementing the restriction. This decision prevents the rule from taking effect a day before its scheduled start.

Department of Homeland Security response

DHS General Counsel James Percival criticized the ruling in a public statement. He argued that enforcement must permit what he called rampant abuse of the immigration system. Percival described a scenario where individuals could take one class and remain for decades.