Alabama immigration law may be struck down

A hearing in a Federal Court in Alabama, on Wednesday, will determine the fate of that state's recently passed illegal immigration law. Critics of the law say it is unreasonably harsh and that Alabama has no right to impose the restrictions, while proponents claim the law will crack down on illegal immigrants who some say are taking jobs from legal residents. Governor Robert Bentley (R) signed the bill into law last June.

BIRMINGHAM, AL (Catholic Online) - The Alabama law is widely regarded as one of the most severe anti-illegal immigration laws in the nation, creating broad requirements and penalties.

According to the law, police may detain people without proper documentation who they suspect may have entered the country illegally, schools are required to ask for valid birth certificates before enrolling students, and people who hire illegal immigrants will be subject to fines. 

Supporters say that illegal immigrants are putting a strain on Alabama's economy and taking jobs away from legal residents. The bill is popular with conservatives in the state legislature who vow to revise the law repeatedly if it does not survive judicial review. Framers claim the law is a response to the lax federal enforcement of current laws.

Opponents say the law is overly harsh. In legal arguments, US Department of Justice Attorney, William Orrick invoked federal supremacy on the issue and argued, "A state may not make it impossible for someone to live in this country." He added that such decisions rest with the Federal government. 

Other opponents cite the contribution of immigrant labor, which includes the employment of illegal immigrants. Specifically, it is argued that most Americans will not perform the same work as immigrants given the extreme conditions and low pay. Particularly hard hit industries would include construction and agriculture. 

If the law survives challenge, and there are indications that the most severe portions won't, it could drive thousands to relocate away from Alabama, draining the state of some of its essential workforce, testing the claim that illegal residents take jobs from legal residents.

While this may be consistent with the hopes of the law's supporters, it will certainly make things more difficult for people who remain, who will be subject to challenges from schools and employers, and possible detention by  police.

---

'Help Give every Student and Teacher FREE resources for a world-class Moral Catholic Education'