George A. O'Toole Jr.

Rule Changes

Presiding over Maria L. v. Mullin, which stayed the interim rules

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has retroactively validated every immigration fine issued under its interim civil-penalty rules from June 27, 2025, through October 13, 2026. The October 26 notice covers penalties assessed under 8 CFR part 281, the procedure created by that interim rule. DHS issued it out of caution and says it does not mean the fines would have been invalid without it.

Updated Nov 1