PromptA state passes a law requiring local police to arrest individuals based on suspected unlawful immigration status, without federal direction. On what constitutional ground would this law likely be struck down?
Click to flip AnswerThe law is likely preempted by federal immigration law under the Supremacy Clause. The federal government has plenary power over immigration, and states cannot unilaterally enforce immigration laws in ways that conflict with federal policy or create an obstacle to federal objectives. Arizona v. United States (2012) invalidated similar state enforcement provisions.
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