A group of noncitizen academics filed a federal lawsuit Monday challenging Trump administration immigration policies they claim infringe on their constitutional rights to free speech.

The lawsuit targets a policy implemented last year that restricts individuals engaged in certain types of research, including studies of social media and fact-checking activities. According to the plaintiffs, the administration characterizes such research as potentially leading to censorship of Americans.

The academics argue that the immigration restrictions amount to a violation of their First Amendment protections, claiming the policies suppress their ability to conduct protected speech and research activities. The case represents the latest legal challenge to immigration enforcement measures implemented during the Trump administration.

The plaintiffs contend that the policy creates a chilling effect on academic freedom by targeting researchers based on the subject matter of their work. The administration has defended similar policies as necessary measures to protect American interests and prevent foreign interference in domestic affairs.

The lawsuit was filed in federal court and seeks to block enforcement of the contested immigration policies. Legal experts note that First Amendment protections for noncitizens in immigration contexts have been the subject of ongoing judicial debate.