The 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has upheld the block on President Donald Trump’s order to end automatic citizenship for children born to parents not legally authorized in the country. This decision marks a setback for Trump’s immigration enforcement efforts, with the court joining the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in refusing to allow the order to take effect during litigation. The appeals panel emphasized that the states challenging the order had a strong case demonstrating constitutional violations and potential harm to the children affected.

President Trump’s executive order, signed on his first day back in office, aimed to limit birthright citizenship by denying it to children born in the U.S. to non-U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident parents. This order triggered at least 10 lawsuits, with multiple judges temporarily halting its enforcement. The order sought to challenge the longstanding provision of the Constitution, as outlined in the 14th Amendment, which guarantees citizenship to those born in the U.S.

Despite arguments from government lawyers about the President’s authority over immigration matters, the courts have so far ruled against the order, citing its potential unconstitutionality. If implemented, Trump’s order could impact over 150,000 children born in the U.S. annually. The legal battle surrounding birthright citizenship is expected to continue, with Trump expressing confidence in prevailing at the Supreme Court in the future.