City battles ACLU, feds in fight against illegals

Clinton-appointee judge who earlier blocked law to hear Hazelton case

Posted: March 12, 2007 1:47 p.m. Eastern
© 2007 WorldNetDaily.com

WASHINGTON – Who says you can't fight city hall?

In Hazelton, Pa., the American Civil Liberties Union is fighting the local government. Hispanic activist groups have joined the suit, attempting to block implementation of a law designed to restrict activities by illegal aliens. And a Bill Clinton-appointed U.S. judge who already temporarily has blocked the law approved by local officials will hear the case over the next two weeks.

It is the first federal trial to explore whether local governments may act on their own to curb illegal immigration allowed by the federal government.

At the forefront of the landmark action by a city government fed up with the effects of illegal immigration is Hazleton Mayor Lou Barletta, who says the illegal aliens are destroying the quality of life in his small northeastern Pennsylvania city and costing the local treasury millions.

Meanwhile, activists on the other side say the law approved by the town is unconstitutional. Judge James Munley, who barred enforcement pending the outcome of the non-jury trial, will hear the case.