Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier is pushing back against a federal judge’s order to stop enforcing the state’s immigration law. He argues the court has overstepped its authority. The judge, Kathleen Williams, threatened contempt charges if Uthmeier refuses to comply.
Florida’s immigration showdown intensifies as Uthmeier vows to defend state law enforcement. He insists the court lacks jurisdiction to block officers from upholding Florida’s statutes. The law allows misdemeanor charges against undocumented immigrants who evade federal authorities.
“I will not tell law enforcement to stop doing their jobs,” Uthmeier stated firmly. He believes the judge’s demand infringes on constitutional separation of powers. The ACLU, which filed the lawsuit, claims the law criminalizes immigrants simply for being in Florida.
Florida’s immigration showdown highlights a broader clash between state and federal authority. Uthmeier argues the law supports federal immigration efforts rather than obstructing them. Meanwhile, critics accuse Florida officials of using immigration as a political tool.
Judge Williams, an Obama appointee, temporarily halted the law, calling it potentially unconstitutional. However, Uthmeier’s office insists her order does not bind all state agencies. He has directed police and sheriffs to continue enforcement while the case proceeds.
Florida’s immigration showdown now moves to the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals. Uthmeier plans to challenge the injunction, calling it an overreach. The ACLU maintains that immigration enforcement is solely a federal responsibility.
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