A federal judge in Miami has temporarily halted the enforcement of a new Florida law aimed at undocumented immigrants, citing concerns that it violates the U.S. Constitution.
The law, known as SB 4-C, was passed by the Republican-controlled legislature and signed by Governor Ron DeSantis in February.
It creates state crimes for undocumented immigrants entering or re-entering Florida, with penalties including a minimum of nine months in prison for first-time offenders and longer sentences for repeat offenders.
Judge Kathleen Williams issued a 14-page decision granting a temporary restraining order, which will remain in effect for 14 days. The ruling came after a lawsuit was filed by the Florida Immigrant Coalition, the Farmworker Association of Florida, and two individual plaintiffs. They argued that the law infringes on federal authority over immigration, as outlined in the Supremacy Clause of the Constitution.
Williams noted that the law gives state officials the power to prosecute cases that federal authorities might not pursue, and it limits federal law enforcement’s discretion in handling such cases. Additionally, the law requires mandatory prison sentences for state offenses where federal law allows for fines or probation.
A hearing is scheduled for April 18 to consider a preliminary injunction that could extend the block on the law. The lawsuit also claims that the law violates the Commerce Clause by regulating people’s entry into Florida and imposing burdens on interstate and foreign commerce.
The ACLU of Florida praised the decision, calling it a victory for immigrants and their families. The organization vowed to continue fighting until the law is permanently struck down, arguing that it is discriminatory and unconstitutional. The law was part of a broader effort by Florida lawmakers to align with President Donald Trump‘s immigration policies.
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