Texas DACA Recipients Brace for Work Permit Wipeout

Federal court’s ruling keeps deportation protections but targets jobs in Texas.

WASHINGTON—A federal appeals court’s ruling on the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program officially took effect Monday, setting the stage for major changes that could strip work permits from recipients in Texas while keeping deportation protections intact.

The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals had ruled on January 17 that the Biden-era DACA regulation could remain in place, but only with limitations in Texas. The decision became final on March 11 when the court issued a mandate, sending the case back to U.S. District Judge Andrew Hanen, who will determine how to implement the ruling.

Texas DACA Recipients Face Uncertain Future

For now, DACA recipients nationwide—including those in Texas—can continue renewing their status with both deportation protections and work authorization. However, the court’s decision requires separating these benefits in Texas, meaning recipients there will eventually lose the ability to obtain work permits.

That change will not happen immediately. Han…