In April, Oklahoma Republican Gov. Kevin Stitt signed House Bill 4156, an immigration crackdown law that criminalizes “unallowed occupations” in the state. Any immigrant who “enters and remains” in Oklahoma “without first obtaining legal authorization to enter the United States” could face jail time and be forced to leave the state.
U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) submit A lawsuit was filed yesterday against the state of Oklahoma, claiming HB 4156 is “preempted by federal law” and “violates the U.S. Constitution.” The lawsuit is the latest development in an ongoing battle between the federal government and the growing number of states passing their own immigration laws.
Under HB 4156, noncitizens convicted in Oklahoma without legal authorization to enter the United States would be guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in county jail. Subsequent offenses would constitute a felony punishable by up to two years in prison. Those who are here illegally must also leave the state within 72 hours of their conviction or release, whichever is later.
“We are taking this action to ensure Oklahoma complies with the Constitution and the immigration regulatory framework adopted by Congress.” explain Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, Chief of the Department of Justice’s Civil Division. Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond vows to defend HB 4156, debate In a May 17 letter, Oklahoma has “not only a sovereign right, but a solemn legal obligation to protect its borders and citizens.”
Several other states are face Similar legal action has been taken against them over immigration laws, sparking debate over whether the federal government has the sole authority to regulate immigration. Challenges to these laws continue; one of the most controversial state-level policies is a Texas law allow Officials arresting and deporting undocumented immigrants are currently on hold after “a dizzying series of courtroom maneuvers,” The Associated Press reports put it.
legislator framed HB 4156 aims to “protect Oklahoma citizens” and combat organized crime, drug cartels and sex trafficking. Others are less sure these will be the primary targets. “This bill will impact people who have lived here for decades, paid millions in taxes and never committed a criminal offense,” explained Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. Migration Policy Institute estimated As of 2019, there were 90,000 undocumented people living in Oklahoma.
Some warned the bill would make policing more difficult and reduce community trust. Oklahoma City Police Chief Wade Gurley Tell Local ABC affiliate KOCO said that given the wording of the bill, “almost like everyone we come into contact with, we have to check their immigration status”. “We find this law to be in conflict with many existing directives on law enforcement practices across Oklahoma,” the Oklahoma Association of Chiefs of Police and leaders of metro law enforcement agencies said in a joint statement. statement. It “increases the fear of reporting to law enforcement, puts crime victims at risk” and “creates legal challenges to fair and impartial policing.”
“This law has the potential to destroy the connections and relationships we have built within our local immigrant communities and set us back for many years to come,” the statement read. continue. HB 4156 is expected to take effect on July 1.
