Judge hears universities' bid to pause SEVP's CPT broadcasts and takes it under advisement

A federal judge in Massachusetts heard arguments on November 6 in the universities' lawsuit over SEVP's August CPT broadcasts and took the matter under advisement, which means no decision has been issued. Judge Julia E. Kobick is weighing the plaintiffs' request for a preliminary injunction and a stay of the broadcasts. HenryKnows listened on the court's public audio line. The government argued that the broadcasts did not change the CPT rule, so no notice or comment period was owed, and that pre-completion OPT gives students a workable alternative to CPT, an option USCIS in practice takes months to approve. The judge voiced some skepticism of the government's positions and said she would consider both sides' arguments. Anjali Motgi and Gavan Gideon argued for the universities, Thomas Duffey for the government. Until the court rules, the broadcasts remain SEVP's stated position and CPT is not suspended. The docket sets no date for a ruling.

Sources: AAU v. DHS docket, entry 33 (clerk's notes) · AAU v. DHS docket, entry 31 (order granting public audio access) · AAU v. DHS docket (CourtListener)