US Judge Strikes Down Visa Ban on 75 Countries
A US judge struck down a Trump visa ban Friday. The ban blocked visas for people from 75 countries.
Judge Jeannette Vargas made the ruling in New York. She said the policy unfairly discriminated based on nationality.
Vargas ruled Secretary of State Marco Rubio lacked authority for this. Rubio could not deny visas to eligible applicants this way.
Reports say Vargas called Rubio's visa freeze "Orwellian." The ruling requires leaders to reconsider denied visa applications. The State Department announced the ban in January.
Officials said people from those countries might need public assistance. Two nonprofit groups and 11 people challenged the policy.
Klear Note — Immigrant visas can let eligible people seek permanent US residence. Public assistance means government help with basic needs, including food or housing.