Both sides claim victory for Georgia in immigration ruling

Georgia Governor Nathan Deal

By DORIE TURNER, Associated Press

ATLANTA - Opponents of Georgia's immigration law are hopeful that Monday's ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court tossing out key provisions of Arizona's law means they can eventually win their legal challenge.

But supporters and Gov. Nathan Deal are also claiming victory, saying the justices affirmed states' rights to assist in enforcing federal immigration law.

Georgia was one of 16 states that filed a brief in the Arizona case. On Monday, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld a provision that requires police to check the immigration status of someone they suspect is not in the country legally. But justices also threw out several provisions, including one requiring all immigrants to carry registration papers.

Portions of Georgia's immigration law are on hold pending a review by the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.