Court Blocks Trump Move to Cut Off Help for Separated Families—Here’s What It Means

In a major legal decision out of California, a federal judge has ruled that the Trump administration cannot back out of a key Biden-era settlement that provides legal services and support to migrant families separated at the U.S.-Mexico border.

The agreement, first reached in 2023 under President Biden, was designed to help thousands of families reunified after being torn apart by Trump’s “zero tolerance” immigration policy. It ensures access to legal help, work permits, and social services for impacted families through at least 2031.

But earlier this year, the Trump team moved to cancel a contract with the Acacia Center for Justice, the nonprofit tasked with delivering these services. Instead, officials proposed bringing the program in-house under the Justice Department—a move that raised serious concerns over conflicts of interest and accountability.

On Tuesday, U.S. District Judge Dana Sabraw slammed the decision, ordering the Trump administration to honor the terms of the original settlement.

“The government cannot just simply disregard it,” Judge Sabraw wrote in his ruling.

The judge emphasized that the services are not just a political promise but part of a legally binding agreement. He warned that scrapping the contract without court approval would not only hurt vulnerable families but also violate federal law.

This legal win comes as the Trump campaign pushes to reverse several Biden-era immigration policies ahead of the 2024 election. Immigration advocates see this ruling as a clear message: court settlements cannot be undone at the stroke of a pen.

Legal experts note that this decision strengthens judicial oversight over executive actions and sets a precedent that future administrations must follow existing legal obligations—even if they disagree with the policy.

The case stems from the now-infamous family separation policy launched in 2018 under Trump. That policy sparked national outrage as children were taken from their parents at the border with no plan for reunification. The fallout led to multiple lawsuits and the creation of the “Ms. L” class action case, which eventually resulted in the Biden-era settlement.

In the wake of this week’s decision, the Acacia Center is expected to resume its services. Families affected by the separations will continue receiving legal aid, mental health care, and assistance with reunification paperwork—many of whom are still struggling with trauma years later.

What’s Next?

The Trump administration will have to reinstate the canceled contract unless they appeal the ruling. If they fail to comply, they could face additional court sanctions.

For now, immigrant rights groups are celebrating what they see as a major win for justice—and a necessary check on government overreach.