Alabama's New Immigration Law

The Beason-Hammon Alabama Taxpayer and Citizen Protection Act

On June 9, 2011, Gov. Robert Bentley signed The Beason-Hammon Alabama Taxpayer and Citizen Protection Act (Act 2011-535) into law, calling the legislation the toughest illegal immigration law in the nation. At more than 70 pages, the Act is lengthy and complex. While six of the Act’s provisions were enjoined by U.S. District Judge Sharon Blackburn and continue to be the subject of litigation, most of the requirements became effective on September 29, 2011. Under the Act, all Alabama businesses face significant penalties for hiring or employing individuals who are not authorized to work. There also are other provisions that may impact specific businesses and governmental entities. Below are links to various documents and materials that may be helpful to understanding the Act and its impact.

This page is designed to provide you with information regarding Alabama’s immigration law. As with any matter, this and other pages should not be considered legal advice. If you have specific questions about immigration law, please contact Wendy Padilla-Madden or one of our other attorneys.

Click Here to read the Balch Alert for Act HB56.

Click Here to read the Index for Act 2011-535 HB56.

Click Here to read Act 2011-535 HB56.

Click Here to read Act 2012-491 HB658.

Click Here to read the Mississippi Employment Protection Act.

Additionally, Balch & Bingham LLP publishes the Alabama Immigration Law Journal, a blog authored by members of the firm’s Labor & Employment Section. The blog, located at www.alabamaimmigrationlawjournal.com, provides practical information to the business community as employers work to ensure compliance with Alabama’s new immigration law.