Department of Justice files lawsuit against Oklahoma for implementing new law establishing penalties for individuals residing in the US without legal permission

The U.S. Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against Oklahoma on Tuesday regarding a state law that aims to impose criminal penalties on individuals living in the state without legal immigration status.

The lawsuit challenges an Oklahoma law in federal court in Oklahoma City that makes it a state crime, punishable by up to two years in prison, to reside in the state illegally. Similar laws in Texas and Iowa are also facing challenges from the Justice Department. Oklahoma, along with other GOP states, is seeking to strengthen immigration enforcement as both Republicans and Democrats focus on the issue. Additional bills targeting migrants have been passed in Florida, Georgia, and Tennessee this year.

The Justice Department argues that the Oklahoma law violates the U.S. Constitution and is seeking to have it declared invalid and prevent the state from enforcing it.

“Oklahoma must abide by the U.S. Constitution and established Supreme Court rulings,” stated U.S. Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, who leads the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “We are taking this action to ensure that Oklahoma follows the Constitution and the regulatory framework set by Congress for immigration.” Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt defended the bill, stating it was necessary due to the Biden administration’s failure to secure the nation’s borders.

“Furthermore, they obstruct states from safeguarding their citizens,” Stitt added in a statement.