This past summer, Alabama Governor Robert J. Bentley signed Alabama's House Bill 56 (HB 56) into law. The legislation -- modeled after Arizona's SB 1070 regarding immigration detention matters and known as the toughest legislation in the U.S. targeting undocumented immigrants -- has generated significant controversy since becoming law. In fact, it is currently embroiled in an ongoing legal challenge and has seen several provisions thrown out.

In recognition of this controversy and in response to objections by certain religious, law enforcement and advocacy groups, both Gov. Bentley and Alabama lawmakers have pledged to introduce some revisions to HB 56. However, they have cautioned that such revisions/amendments will be only minor in scope and that the overall tough stance on undocumented immigration will not be compromised.

For example, the House Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee passed a bill last week that would allow military identification to be presented as proof of citizenship when conducting official government business or purchasing car tags.

However, some Alabama politicians feel that these proposed changes are missing the mark and are instead proposing their own amendments.

For example, Senator Gerald Dial (R-Lineville) -- who previously voted in favor of the bill -- has now introduced a measure calling for amendments to HB 56 based in part on the recommendations of the Alabama Attorney General. Some of these amendments include:

  • A Good Samaritan clause so that those who provide assistance to an undocumented immigrant wouldn't face potential criminal charges
  • A measure preventing teachers from verifying the immigration status of students
  • A measure allowing military IDs to be accepted as identification

"My bill is to correct those unintended consequences that are putting undue hardship on Alabama citizens," said Dial of his proposed changes.

Still others are looking to eliminate HB 56 altogether.

Sen. Billy Beasley (D-Clayton) has pre-filed a bill seeking to repeal the law. However, he already admits that the bill faces a real challenge in the Republican-dominated state legislature.

Stay tuned for further updates on this story from our Los Angeles County immigration law blog ...

If you are facing immigration detention or have already been detained on an immigration-related matter, an experienced lawyer can help ensure that your rights and best interests are fully protected.

This post was provided for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice.

Sources:

ABC 32, "Lawmakers want to amend Alabama's immigration law" Feb. 11, 2012

Fox News Latino, "Alabama immigration law may see changes in coming weeks" Feb. 13, 2012