Gov. Robert Bentley has issued a statement on a federal appeals court ruling that blocks public schools from checking the citizenship status of new students.

Here is Bentley’s statement:

“The essence of Alabama’s immigration law has been upheld by today’s ruling. The Court is recognizing the state’s authority to inquire on immigration status in certain circumstances. The Court is also allowing the public records transaction provision to continue to be enforced.”

“This law is needed because the federal government has refused to enforce its own policies.  The federal government has also failed to approach immigration reform in a comprehensive manner.”

“The core of Alabama’s immigration law remains that if you live or work in the state, you should do so legally.  It is time now to move past court battles and focus on enforcement of Alabama’s law.  We worked closely with legislators to clarify, simplify, and strengthen Alabama’s immigration law this year, and the essence of that law has been upheld.”

Article source: http://www.waka.com/news/montgomery-news/Bentley-Speaks-Out-on-Court-Immigration-Ruling-166821586.html