Policy Update 10/16/25
Sasha@iaje.us
During the government shutdown many core immigration enforcement functions, such as ICE arrests, deportations, and CBP border operations, will continue as “essential” services. USCIS would largely keep processing applications, some nonessential staff might be furloughed. In contrast, non‑detained immigration court hearings would likely be postponed, potentially delaying tens of thousands of cases.
Link to explainer: What a Government Shutdown Means for the Immigration System
Although immigration courts typically postpone hearings for people not in custody during shutdowns, many hearings are still proceeding, according to NILC. Those with upcoming hearings should plan to attend unless they receive official notice of a change, check the court portal frequently, and save proof if their hearing is rescheduled.
Jackson’s city council approved a $337 million budget for fiscal 2025–26 allocating additional resources toward public safety initiatives. (Clarion Ledger, 2025; Minta, 2025). The administration and council expressed significant concerns about the reliability of financial projections, citing overdue audits and weak fiscal transparency, prompting cautious planning and department consolidation proposals. (Minta, 2025). Some amendments included a delayed 3 % raise for the city’s lowest-paid employees and added funds for police, fire, and public works equipment, though confidence in the budget remains moderate given the unresolved audit issues. (Minta, 2025; Clarion Ledger, 2025).
