The Department of Justice (DOJ) has decided to drop a federal immigration lawsuit, allowing a new Oklahoma crime to go into full effect. The lawsuit challenged a 2019 state law that banned transporting or harboring unauthorized immigrants. The DOJ stated that they reached this decision after considering the impact on public safety and the immigration system.
The new law, known as “impermissible occupation,” makes it a crime to be in the United States illegally. It imposes fines ranging from $100 to $1,000 for each day a person is in violation of the law. Additionally, employers who knowingly hire or retain unauthorized immigrants may face fines of up to $10,000 per employee.
Supporters of the law argue that it will help protect jobs for legal residents and reduce crime associated with illegal immigration. However, critics raise concerns about potential racial profiling and the impact on immigrant communities. They also point out that immigration enforcement is typically a federal responsibility, not a state one.
The decision to drop the federal lawsuit comes amidst ongoing debates and legal battles surrounding immigration policy in the United States. With the new law now in full effect, Oklahoma joins a growing number of states implementing stricter immigration enforcement measures.
As the state moves forward with the implementation of “impermissible occupation,” it remains to be seen how this new law will impact immigrant communities, law enforcement practices, and the overall social fabric of Oklahoma. The DOJ’s decision to drop the lawsuit indicates a shift in federal policy towards state immigration laws, setting the stage for potential challenges and discussions in the future.
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