Preliminary Injunction Issued
On Friday, U.S. District Judge Bernard M. Jones granted a motion to temporarily halt Oklahoma from enforcing its recently passed anti-immigration law. This preliminary injunction, requested by the U.S. Department of Justice, will remain in effect while the lawsuit challenging the law continues. The controversial law was set to take effect on Monday.
Legal Challenges and Federal Concerns
The lawsuit, filed in federal court in Oklahoma City, contests the measure that criminalizes living in Oklahoma without legal immigration status. This state crime could lead to up to two years in prison for violators. Similar laws in Texas and Iowa are also under scrutiny by the Justice Department.
The Department of Justice argues that the Oklahoma statute violates the U.S. Constitution and is seeking a court order to invalidate and permanently bar its enforcement.
Judge’s Rationale
Judge Jones, in his Friday order, acknowledged Oklahoma’s frustrations with illegal immigration. However, he emphasized that the state cannot implement policies that conflict with federal law, stating, “The State may not pursue policies that undermine federal law.”
Reactions and Statements
Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond expressed disappointment with the ruling, defending the law as a necessary measure in light of what he perceives as the Biden administration’s failure to secure national borders. Drummond stated, “We intend to appeal today’s decision and defend one of the most powerful tools we have.”
