Iowa defended its new immigration law on Monday, arguing that it does not interfere with federal authority over immigration. The state assured that local officials would follow all federal regulations.
Lawyers representing the U.S. Department of Justice and civil rights groups are seeking to temporarily or permanently block the law, which is set to take effect on July 1 unless halted by the courts.
Similar to laws in Texas (currently under temporary blockage) and Oklahoma (facing DOJ opposition), Iowa’s law would allow criminal charges against individuals with outstanding deportation orders or prior removals from the U.S. Upon arrest, migrants could either agree to leave the country as ordered by a judge or face potential prosecution, which might include imprisonment before deportation.
Atlanta firefighters unload water bottles (Via Jeff Clark/Shutterstock)
During a court hearing, Iowa’s deputy solicitor general, Patrick Valencia, emphasized that the state law aligns with federal standards without creating new immigration rules.
Opposing attorneys argued that the Iowa law violates federal jurisdiction over immigration matters, insisting that immigration is solely a federal responsibility. They highlighted concerns that the law does not provide exceptions for individuals who have been deported but are now legally present in the U.S., such as asylum seekers.
