WASHINGTON — The U.S. Supreme Court declined to lift a lower court order blocking enforcement of a Florida law that makes it a crime for undocumented immigrants to enter the state, allowing a legal challenge to continue in the lower courts, the Guardian reported.
The July 9 ruling leaves in effect a preliminary injunction issued by U.S. District Judge Kathleen Williams, who found that the law likely conflicts with the federal government’s exclusive authority over immigration policy. Williams ruled the state could not enforce the measure while litigation is ongoing.
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The law, known as SB 4-C, was signed by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis in February and supported by the Trump administration. It makes it a felony for certain undocumented immigrants to enter Florida, imposes mandatory jail time before trial and includes penalties ranging from nine months to five years in prison depending on prior immigration and criminal history.
The American Civil Liberties Union filed a federal class-action lawsuit in April challenging the law. Plaintiffs include two undocumented immigrants living in Florida, the Florida Immigrant Coalition and the Farmworker Association of Florida.
The suit argues the law unlawfully attempts to create a state-level immigration enforcement system and violates the U.S. Constitution’s commerce clause by restricting movement between states.
Supporters of the measure, including Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier, contend the law aligns with federal statutes and is necessary to enforce border security.
The 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld Judge Williams’ injunction in June. After the decision, Florida filed an emergency appeal to the Supreme Court. On the same day that request was submitted, Williams held Uthmeier in civil contempt for failing to properly notify law enforcement agencies about her prior ruling. She ordered him to file regular updates with the court on any enforcement actions.
Judge Williams’ injunction remains in effect as the legal case continues. No timeline has been set for final resolution.
