The federal government, via the Department of Justice, has made it clear. Alabama will lose federal funding if law enforcement agencies violate the Civil Rights Act of 1964. In a December 2,2011 letter to Alabama law enforcement agents, local police chiefs and sheriffs were warned to be very careful when enforcing this new immigration law. If enforcing Alabama’s immigration law violates the Civil Rights Act, Alabama will lose federal money.
In effect, under Alabama’s new immigration law, law enforcement must check the immigration status of everyone pulled over during a routine traffic stop; if proof of legitimate immigration status cannot be immediately provided and the officer thinks the individual is not in the United States legally, the officer must make an arrest.
The LA Times reports two examples of inappropriate stops and false arrests of a German citizen and a Japanese citizen, both in the United States legally.
Ways Alabama May Lose Money because of the Strict Immigration Law
- · Lawsuits for false arrest and harassment
- · Sick time and paid leave for overwhelmed law enforcement officers
- · Loss of taxes and spending of those who have fled the state for fear of harassment
- · Loss of federal funding if Civil Rights Act of 1964 is violated
- · Loss of farming revenue because workers have fled the state and food is rotting in the fields
- · Loss of tourist income because damage to Alabama’s image
In fact, financial loss has already been felt by the state government; Alabama’s revenue commissioner has stopped county officials from asking for proof of legal immigration status from individuals who want to renew their car tags.
Don’t allow yourself or your loved ones to be bullied by state immigration laws such as Alabama’s new law. If you need help with any immigration issue, consult with a qualified immigration attorney.
Where to Get Help with Immigration Issues
We focus our practice on immigration law, current immigration policies, and helping people just like you, every day. We will listen to your concerns and answer your questions; you are not alone.
If you have an immigration issue, your next step is to contact our office: 513-791-1673 or Thomasjr@geygan.com. We will gently walk you through your immigration issues, guiding you and your family, and aggressively representing you before law enforcement officials, in court, and before the Department of State, as needed.