Multiple organizations filed a complaint and a motion for preliminary injunction challenging the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) final rule ending the Duration of Status (D/S) framework for international students, exchange visitors and representatives of foreign media in the US District Court for the District of Massachusetts on Tuesday.
The complaint argues that DHS failed to adequately assess its costs and benefits, meaningfully respond to public comments, consider less burdensome alternatives or justify the rule based on its stated objectives.
The lawsuit also alleges that DHS provided an inadequate public comment period and exceeded its statutory authority.
DHS gave the public 32 days and drew 22,000 comments, including opposition from more than 30 Congress members. Despite there being more comments opposing the changes, DHS enacted the new rule, which is scheduled to take effect on Sept 15.
Fanta Aw, executive director and CEO of NAFSA: Association of International Educators, said this decision is "a solution in search of a problem".
