Mixed Reaction to SB 1070 Supreme Court Ruling

News that the U.S. Supreme Court struck down several provisions of Arizona's controversial immigration law Monday has garnered a mixed reaction on both sides of the issues, with many celebrating only parts of the ruling.

SB 1070, which gave local police more ability to enforce immigration law, was passed by Arizona's legislature in 2010 and resulted in a national debate about how to treat illegal immigration.  The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors voted to restrict employee travel to the state and other nearby local cities took symbolic stands on the issue

According to the Los Angeles Times, Monday's ruling invalidated Arizona rules such as making it a "state crime for illegal immigrants to seek work and to not to carry immigration papers" and also a provision that "gave the police authority to arrest immigrants for crimes that may lead to deportation."

However, the Supreme Court did not invalidate a portion of the law that would allow police to ask a suspected illegal immigrant for proof of residency or legal status in the U.S.

Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Pasadena, who represents Altadena, released a statement showing his mixed feelings on the court's ruling:

While I am pleased that the Supreme Court struck down provisions of Arizona’s immigration law SB1070, I am concerned that the validity of the ‘show me your papers’ provision was upheld and remains unclear. Our broken immigration system takes a terrible toll on families, local law enforcement authorities, and our economy. The time for Congress to act is now.”

Rep. Judy Chu, D-El Monte, who is running to represent Altadena in the new 27th Congressional District, wrote that she "applauds" the court for striking down much of the law, but also raised concerns about the provision that remains:

“I remain concerned about the precedent that this sets for our nation – a nation of immigrants – as we see race-based law enforcement codified into state law.  Lawsuits challenging the provision on racial profiling grounds are moving through the courts and I am hopeful that this discriminatory provision will ultimately be invalidated.  The Supreme Court’s decision today is yet another reminder that Congress must act immediately to ensure our nation has a clear and robust federal immigration policy that works for families, employers and immigrants and citizens alike.”

On the other side of the aisle, some local lawmakers were quick to claim victory.  As , Assemblyman Tim Donnelley, R-Hesperia, who represents neighboring cities, had the following to say:

Today, the Supreme Court struck down a number of provisions, but upheld one key provision of the Arizona Law (SB1070), which requires police officers to check the immigration status of someone they suspect to be in the country illegally. Governor Jan Brewer remarked, "This is a victory for the rule of law. It is also a victory for the 10th Amendment and all americans who believe in the inherent right and responsibility of states to defend their citizens. After more than 2 years of legal challenges, the heart of SB1070 can now be implemented in accordance with the US Constitution. Godspeed to Arizona! Godspeed to California! Godspeed to the United States of America.