Immigration Courts, Detention Facilities Covid-19 Rules Upheld

Challenges to the policies implemented by the federal government to prevent the spread of the Covid-19 virus in immigration courts and detention facilities were dismissed by a federal district court.

The polices include social distancing protocols, and suggest waiving in-person hearings in favor of online and telephone conferences. They also require visitors to provide and wear personal protective equipment, and require screening and monitoring.

Should it become necessary, the protocols will suspend in-person visits by lawyers in the detention facilities, but will require use of video technology, email, and messaging, so detainees may communicate with counsel.

The court lacks jurisdiction ...