A federal judge has ruled to keep the Elizabeth detention center open.

The site was slated to close at the end of the month under state law. Advocates had called on the Biden administration to cancel the contract with the center operator, Core Civic, altogether.

The judge’s decision is in opposition to New Jersey's sanctuary ban on ICE detention centers. Advocates say they are now planning their next steps to defend the law and demand justice.

Attorney General Matt Platkin says the state will be appealing the decision.

"We are disappointed with today's ruling, which we view as interfering with New Jersey’s right to protect its residents. Private detention facilities threaten the public health and safety of new Jerseyans, including when used for immigration purposes,” he said.