By Brandon Moseley
Alabama Political Reporter
After the beating that the Arizona Law took from the U.S. Supreme Court, Alabama Republicans knew that some provisions of Alabama’s landmark anti-illegal immigration law, HB 56 were going to be overturned by the U.S. Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals in Atlanta; but many Republican leaders issued statements announcing that they were pleased (under the circumstances) with the provisions which were upheld.
Alabama Governor Robert Bentley (R) said, “The essence of Alabama’s immigration law has been upheld by today’s ruling. The Court is recognizing the state’s authority to inquire on immigration status in certain circumstances. The Court is also allowing the public records transaction provision to continue to be enforced.”
Speaker of the Alabama House Mike Hubbard (R) from Auburn said, “Glad to see the “real teeth” of Alabama’s illegal immigration law upheld again by the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals. Overall, Alabama continues to have a strict and enforceable illegal immigration law, and that’s not going to change.”
Alabama Representative Mickey Hammon who sponsored HB 56 said, “I am pleased that the 11th Circuit upheld the strong enforcement provisions of Alabama’s illegal immigration statute. The ruling ensures that law enforcement personnel will be allowed to identify, detain and deal with those they suspect are living in Alabama illegally.”
Al.com reported that Alabama Attorney General Luther Strange said, “While we are still reviewing today’s ruling, we are pleased that the court recognized the validity of our arguments and upheld several provisions of Alabama’s law.”
Todd Stacy, Speaker Hubbard’s former spokesperson said on Twitter, “No section that was in effect yesterday is not in effect today after the ruling. Two sections not in effect yesterday are in effect today.” Mr. Stacy has recently gone to work for Congresswoman Martha Roby(R) from Montgomery.
Gov. Bentley said, “The core of Alabama’s immigration law remains that if you live or work in the state, you should do so legally. It is time now to move past court battles and focus on enforcement of Alabama’s law. We worked closely with legislators to clarify, simplify, and strengthen Alabama’s immigration law this year, and the essence of that law has been upheld.”
Rep. Hammon said, “In addition, the court said we may request those applying for business licenses, vehicle tags, drivers’ licenses and similar government documents to prove their legal status. With today’s ruling, Alabama’s immigration law remains the toughest in the country, and that is a fact that should make all law-abiding citizens of our state proud.”
