On June 28, District Judge Bernard M. Jones issued a preliminary injunction at the request of the United States Department of Justice. According to information from the AP agency, this injunction will remain in place while their lawsuit challenging the new law is resolved.
This injunction temporarily prevents the state of Oklahoma from enforcing immigration law HB4156, signed by Republican Governor Kevin Stitt on April 30. The law imposes up to two years in prison for individuals who intentionally enter the United States without permission and remain in the state of Oklahoma without the appropriate immigration authorization.
Mexican Foreign Minister Alicia Bárcena Ibarra posted on social media that this resolution is seen favorably and reiterated that the defense of Mexicans in the state is a priority.
“We take favorable note of the temporary suspension of the implementation of Law #HB4156, which criminalizes the migrant community in #Oklahoma. We reiterate that the defense and protection of the rights of the Mexican community abroad is a priority for @SRE_mx.”
Why Was the Implementation of HB4156 Halted?
The United States Department of Justice argues that Oklahoma’s law infringes on the federal Constitution by granting powers that exceed local jurisdiction. It requested the court to declare it invalid and prohibit the state from implementing it.
Judge Bernard M. Jones' judicial order states that Oklahoma “may have understandable frustrations with the problems caused by illegal immigration,” but “the state cannot carry out policies that undermine federal law.”
Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond expressed disappointment with the ruling, claiming the law is necessary because President Joe Biden’s administration does not protect the nation's borders.
“We intend to appeal today's decision and defend one of the most powerful tools at our disposal,” Drummond stated.
Meanwhile, the Mexican Consulate in Oklahoma informed that the judicial process would continue and that they would keep the community duly informed.
“The Attorney General of OK stated his intention to appeal this decision so that the judicial process will continue. However, for now, the law is halted. @ConsulMexOklah will keep the community informed about updates on time.”
The United States Department of Justice has also focused on challenging similar laws passed in Texas and Iowa.