BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) — A federal judge in Birmingham has temporarily blocked enforcement of Alabama’s new law cracking down on illegal immigration.
U.S. District Judge Sharon L. Blackburn’s order, issued Monday, means the law won’t take effect as scheduled on Thursday.
Judge Blackburn didn’t address whether the law is constitutional. Instead, she said she needs more time to consider lawsuits filed by the Justice Department, private groups and individuals that claim the state is overstepping its bounds with the law.
The judge said she will issue a longer ruling by Sept. 28.
Both supporters and opponents say Alabama’s law is the nation’s toughest against illegal immigration. Among other things, it would require schools to verify the citizenship status of students. Officials say it wouldn’t prevent illegal immigrants from attending public schools.
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