States file challenge to Arizona immigration law

Source: SF Chronicle

California Attorney General Kamala Harris has joined officials from 10 other states in asking the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn Arizona's immigration law, saying the law exceeds state authority, conflicts with national policy and would drive illegal immigrants into other states.

The law would require police to demand proof of legal status from anyone in their custody whom they suspect of being in the country illegally. Largely blocked by court order since its passage two years ago, it is scheduled for a Supreme Court hearing on April 25, with a ruling due by the end of June.

Harris said Tuesday that the Arizona law would disrupt a "cohesive federal immigration policy" that is particularly important in California. She cited a 2011 report by the Pew Hispanic Center that said California has more undocumented immigrants - 2.5 million - making up a greater share of the workforce - 9.7 percent - than any other state.

Arizona officials argue that the federal government has failed to police the nation's borders and say their law would aid federal enforcement.

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