Yin v. Diaz

  • Latest Update: Jul 01, 2025
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Summary

This case challenges 2023’s SB 846, which presumptively prohibits the academic employment in Florida public universities and colleges of international students domiciled in seven foreign countries, including most prominently China, and accordingly also injures professors established in Florida who need to hire these students to succeed in their professorial careers.

We filed suit on March 25, 2024, and filed a motion for preliminary injunction on April 29, 2024. On March 30, 2025, we obtained a statewide injunction against the law “to the extent that it prohibits student employment at Florida’s state universities and colleges already authorized by F-1 visas issued by the federal government.” The Eleventh Circuit later narrowed that injunction to apply just to our clients.

WHAT'S AT STAKE

S.B. 846 attempts to supersede federal power over immigration law by prohibiting employment in Florida public universities and colleges of international students, particularly from China. Under the guise of “national security,” the Florida Legislature is blatantly discriminating against Asian immigrants and other foreign nationals who contribute immensely to the academic success and reputation of Florida’s public universities. This lawsuit seeks to protect those suffering discrimination and bias at the hands of Florida’s government.

The Latest: Briefing in the Eleventh Circuit was completed in July 2025. Oral argument will be held in April 2026.

Attorney(s):
Daniel Tilley