A federal judge Wednesday rejected a request that he stop Oklahoma from implementing new anti-illegal immigration legislation effective Thursday.

U.S. District Judge James Payne filed his ruling electronically after the courthouse had closed for the day, the Tulsa World reported. He turned down a preliminary injunction sought by the National Coalition of Latino Clergy Inc. and others, the newspaper said.

Attorneys for the plaintiffs had argued at a Wednesday hearing that the legislation violates the U.S. Constitution but the federal judge didn't rule on its constitutionality. However, Payne has scheduled further filings in the matter.

The new Oklahoma law will make it a felony to knowingly transport illegal aliens. It also creates state obstacles to hiring illegal aliens and requires state contractors to check the immigration status of workers. In addition, it requires proof of citizenship to receive certain government benefits.  // Copyright 2007 by United Press International



Publication date: 01 November 2007   

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