An Arizona federal judge denied a temporary restraining order to block part of a state law that allows Arizona to protect its border with Mexico. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and the Florence Immigrant & Refugee Rights Project sued the state earlier this month, challenging a portion of Proposition 314, also known as Arizona’s Secure the Border Act.

Background on Proposition 314

Arizona voters passed Proposition 314 by nearly 63% in 2024. The proposition gives Arizona more legal tools and authority to defend its border against illegal immigrants, as well as increases penalties for fentanyl traffickers whose crimes result in deaths. The measure also added eligibility checks for specific public benefits.

The lawsuit challenged Section 5 of the proposition, which creates a crime of illegal entry into Arizona as well as allows local and state law enforcement, when probable cause exists, to arrest suspected illegal immigrants entering Arizona outside of a lawful port of entry.

Reaction to the Ruling

Tara DeGeorge, legal director for the ACLU of Arizona, said the judge’s decision to deny the temporary restraining order against Prop. 314 was “troubling.” She added that “this case is far from settled.”

Arizona Senate President Warren Petersen told The Center Square on Tuesday that the preliminary injunction hearing in the case will occur on Aug. 11. Petersen, R-Gilbert, said he was not surprised when the judge ruled against blocking the law. He added that Proposition 314 is not about illegal immigration, but rather border security.

Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.