(Image Source: Flickr/nola.agent)

BY LUCIA LEE

ANCHOR ANA COMPAIN-ROMERO

In a recent decision by the federal appeals court, several parts of the controversial Alabama immigration law have been temporarily blocked. Fox News has a recap.


“‘The federal government says it has exclusive authority over immigration. Several key parts of the law have been temporarily blocked, including the provision making it a crime to harbor an illegal immigrant.’” “‘At least for now, the state cannot enforce certain portions of the law, including the requirement that public schools check students’ immigration status.”

The court did not block: (via The Birmingham News)

“‘Other key provisions including status checks during traffic stops, contracts with illegal immigrants or government business transactions.’”

Examiner.com quotes State Senator Scott Beason, who says he will stand against any efforts to weaken the immigration law.

“‘I can't imagine that anyone would want to repeal the bill ... It's doing what it is supposed to be doing overall.’"


One blocked provision, section 13, outlaws the harboring of an undocumented migrant—which would prevent churches from extending them a hospitable hand. The Huntsville Times quotes one bishop’s statement, who says the new ruling is good news.

“‘The judge's decision to enjoin temporarily Section 13 protects our churches' ministries from prosecution under this over-reaching law, and substantially protects our religious liberties. … We will continue to provide food, shelter, transportation, housing, and the church's sacraments to all of God's people, regardless of race, class, or citizenship status.’"


An L.A. Times blogger says the future of the case won’t be decided for several more months to allow for more debate. Alabama’s immigration law is widely considered to be the strictest in the nation.