A federal judge has issued a preliminary injunction preventing Oklahoma from enforcing its newly passed anti-immigration law. The law, which would criminalize living in the state without legal immigration status and impose penalties of up to two years in prison, was set to take effect Monday. However, U.S. District Judge Bernard M. Jones granted the request made by the U.S. Department of Justice to block its enforcement while the lawsuit challenging its constitutionality continues.
The Department of Justice argues that the Oklahoma law violates the U.S. Constitution and has requested the court to declare the measure invalid. Judge Jones, in his ruling, acknowledged Oklahoma’s concerns about illegal immigration but emphasized that states cannot enact policies that conflict with federal law. The ruling came as similar laws in states like Texas and Iowa are also facing legal battles.
Oklahoma AG Vows to Appeal, Critics Celebrate Ruling
Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond expressed disappointment with the ruling, asserting that the Biden administration’s failure to secure the borders makes such a law necessary. Drummond stated that the state would appeal the decision, defending the law as a crucial measure to address illegal immigration.
Opponents of the law, including Noor Zafar from the American Civil Liberties Union’s (ACLU) Immigrants’ Rights Project, hailed the ruling as a victory for Oklahoma families and communities. Zafar described the law as harmful and praised the court’s decision to halt its enforcement, stating that it would prevent further harm while legal proceedings unfold.
Source : https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/oklahoma/articles/2024-06-28/federal-judge-temporarily-stops-oklahoma-from-enforcing-new-anti-immigration-law
