Federal Judge Blocks Ala. Illegal Immigration Law

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) — A federal judge in Birmingham has temporarily blocked enforcement of Alabama's new law cracking down on illegal immigration.

U.S. District Judge Sharon L. Blackburn's order issued Monday means the law won't take effect as scheduled on Thursday.

Blackburn didn't address whether the law is constitutional. Instead, she says she needs more time to consider lawsuits filed by the Justice Department, private groups and individuals that claim the state is overstepping its bounds with the law.

The judge says she will issue a longer ruling by Sept. 28.

Both supporters and opponents say Alabama's law is the nation's toughest against illegal immigration. Among other things, it would require schools to verify the citizenship status of students. Officials say it wouldn't prevent illegal immigrants from attending public schools.