TULSA, Oklahoma — Rivas & Associates, a leading immigration law firm, applauds a federal court’s temporary injunction against Oklahoma House Bill 4156. The bill, which would have created new state-level crimes and penalties for immigrants living in the state without legal authorization, would have taken effect on July 1, 2024.
Prior to the injunction, Rivas & Associates filed a federal lawsuit challenging Oklahoma House Bill 4156 on May 24, 2024. The lawsuit was filed on behalf of advocacy group Padres Unidos de Tulsa, and Ximena Monserrat Lopez Mena — an Oklahoma City resident. It alleged that HB 4156 violates the Supremacy Clause of the U.S. Constitution by interfering with the federal government’s exclusive authority over immigration matters.
“Oklahoma’s new anti-immigration law is a blatant attempt to bypass federal immigration authority and target our state’s immigrant communities,” said Elissa Stiles, the lead local attorney on the case. “We’re pleased that the federal court agreed with us and issued a temporary injunction against this unconstitutional measure. However, we’re aware that this is a temporary situation and remain committed to defending the rights of all immigrants in Oklahoma through lawsuits and all other legal means necessary.”
The lawsuit, which followed a similar challenge filed by the U.S. Department of Justice in May of 2024, sought to have HB 4156 declared unlawful and prohibit its enforcement. It also requested attorney’s fees. Both suits argued that immigration matters are reserved for the federal government and that Oklahoma’s law conflicts with the federal immigration system.
Lorena Rivas, Founder and Senior Attorney at Rivas & Associates, told the ACLU, “While we understand this is not a final ruling, this initial block fortifies our argument that this law is unconstitutional and for pure political purposes. We thank the court for providing some peace to our clients and other immigrants in our communities.”
Rivas & Associates has a long history of advocating for immigrant rights in Oklahoma and across the country. For more information about the firm, please visit www.rivasassociates.com.
About Rivas & Associates
Rivas & Associates is a leading immigration law firm based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, committed to helping immigrants across the United States make their American dream an American reality. Founded by Lorena Rivas, the firm is known for its innovative approach, strategic advice, and unwavering dedication to securing positive results for its clients and their families. Rivas & Associates offers representation in a wide range of immigration matters, from family-based petitions to deportation defense, naturalization, and more.
