MONTGOMERY—Governor Robert Bentley today released the following statement regarding United States District Judge Sharon Blackburn’s ruling that upheld most sections of Alabama's new immigration law:

“Today is a victory for Alabama. The court agreed with us on a majority of the provisions that were challenged.  During my campaign, I promised a tough law against illegal immigration, and we now have one.  The law that the Alabama Legislature passed and I signed is constitutional. 

If the federal government had done its job by enforcing its own immigration laws, there would be no need for Alabama – or other states - to pass a law such as this.  Unfortunately, they have failed to do their job. 

The judge temporarily enjoined four parts of the law, but this fight is just beginning. I am optimistic that this law will be completely upheld, and I remain committed to seeing this law fully implemented.  I will continue to fight at every turn to defend this law against any and all challenges.”