Mixed Decision in South Carolina Immigration Law Case

"A federal court today blocked key provisions of South Carolina's anti-immigrant law and recognized that harms could take place if police check a person's immigration status, inviting additional challenges of civil rights abuses.  The decision affirms a December 2011 ruling that blocked key sections of the law, including those that aimed to turn unlawful presence into a state crime, and to turn everyday activities such as giving a ride or renting an apartment to an undocumented immigrant into a crime.  While the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina in Charleston allowed for implementation of a "show me your papers" provision, it invites future challenges involving lengthy detentions and other civil rights issues." - ACLU, Nov. 15, 2012.