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What does the latest DACA decision mean?

The ruling gives the Department of Homeland Security 90 days to better explain its view that DACA is 'unlawful'.

HOLLAND, Mich. - A federal judge ruled that the United States must resume its Deferred Action for Child Arrivals or DACA program.

President Trump announced the DACA program would end in March but a series of federal court decisions kept DACA in place.

The program dates back to 2012, when President Obama established the program without congressional action. The program protects undocumented immigrants who were brought to the country as children from deportation.

So what does this ruling mean for those in West Michigan impacted by DACA?

The ruling gives the Department of Homeland Security 90 days to better explain its view that DACA is "unlawful." If the department can't do that, they must start accepting new and renewal DACA applicants.

Thousands have been fighting for this reinstatement for months.

"We need a solution, we need a permanent solution and we need action right now," one protester told the media back in March.

"I think among the community, especially as we see more and more DACA recipients arrested and deported nationwide they're starting to feel like a greater sense of distrust in the program," attorney Sarah Yore-Van Oosterhout, said.

"So I'm not sure what kind of influx we're going to see as a result of this decision."

Yore-Van Oosterhout is the executive director of Lighthouse Immigration Advocates. Lighthouse is a Holland-based law firm and advocacy center.

Though Yore-Van Oosterhout says the future is uncertain she is anticipating an increase in calls to the office. Lighthouse is beginning to schedule DACA consultations so if the program is reinstated, many are ready to continue or begin their American dream.

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