Opinion ID: 658245
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: Reopen and Reconsideration

Text: 16 Finally, Arana-Moreau argues that the BIA erred in refusing his request that they reopen and reconsider his case. This circuit's recent opinion in Butros v. INS, 990 F.2d 1142 (9th Cir.1993) (en banc), compels us to agree. 17 In denying Arana-Moreau's request that it reopen or reconsider his case, the BIA reasoned: 18 We must deny the respondent's motion to reopen proceedings because he has not established prima facie eligibility for section 212(c) relief. The respondent's lawful permanent residency ended on October 3, 1991, when this Board dismissed his appeal and issued an administratively final order of deportation. Since he is no longer a lawful permanent resident, the respondent is not statutorily eligible for section 212(c) relief. Consequently, he is unable to demonstrate prima facie eligibility for the relief he seeks and his motion to reopen will be denied. 19 (citations omitted). The Ninth Circuit specifically rejected this reasoning in Butros: 20 What is crystal-clear is that as long as the Board may reconsider or reopen the case, the status of the petitioner in that case for purposes of section 212(c) relief has not been finally determined for purposes of action by the Board. The Board erred in determining that the statutory language on change of status applies to an alien whose case may be appealed, reconsidered, or reopened. 21 Butros, 990 F.2d at 1145 (citation omitted). Accordingly, we reverse the BIA's determination that Arana-Moreau is no longer statutorily eligible for Sec. 212(c) relief, grant Arana-Moreau's petition for review, and remand to the BIA for reconsideration of his motion to reopen and reconsider in accordance with Butros. 22 Petition for review GRANTED. AFFIRMED in part, REVERSED in part, and REMANDED.