Judge says forcing “wait in Mexico” to seek asylum is illegal

Federal judge rules it is unconstitutional

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (KYMA, KECY/AP) - U.S. District Judge Cynthia Ann Bashant ruled Thursday afternoon that it is unconstitutional for the government to to deny migrants an asylum application until space opens up for processing claims.

Former President Barack Obama nominated Judge Bashant to serve on the the United States District Courts in 2013. She was one of eight whom Obama chose.

In regard to his choices, former President Obama shared, “These men and women have had distinguished legal careers and I am honored to ask them to continue their work as judges on the federal bench. They will serve the American people with integrity and an unwavering commitment to justice.”

Courts officials report the ruling has no immediate impact. However, it could prevent government agencies from denying asylum seekers entry if it lacks resources to process the people.

This ruling could also bring relief to some of the tens of thousands of migrants who put their names on unofficial waiting lists in Mexican border towns.

Judge Bashant received her J.D. in 1986 from the University of California, Hastings College of the Law and her A.B. from Smith College in 1982.