A judge from the District Court temporarily blocked a controversial Oklahoma immigration law from being enforced. The law, known as H.B. 4156, was supposed to start on July 1, 2024. Like laws in other states, the law addresses individuals in Oklahoma who don’t have a legal status in the U.S.

According to this law, it is against the rules to enter Oklahoma if you’re not legally allowed to be in the United States. Someone who breaks this law for the first time could be charged with a misdemeanor. This could having to pay up to $500 or spend a year in a county jail. After they’re released, the individual is required to leave Oklahoma within 72 hours. If someone keeps breaking this law or commits another crime while breaking it, they could be charged with a felony. This could lead to a fine of up to $1000 and up to 2 years in a state prison.

Since signed into law in April 2024, the legislation has faced many legal challenges. A group of civil rights organizations filed a lawsuit saying the law goes against a part of the U.S. Constitution called the Supremacy Clause. Additionally, the U.S. Justice Department thinks the law breaks both the Supremacy Clause and the Foreign Commerce Clause of the U.S. Constitution.

Because of Judge Jones’ decision, the immigration law is temporarily unenforceable. Oklahoma will likely appeal this ruling.

If you have questions about any U.S. immigration-related issue, contact us. Our team of experienced attorneys works with our clients through their immigration journeys every step of the way.