The U.S. Supreme Court has upheld the controversial Arizona immigration law. In a vote of five to three – the court said federal immigration law does not bar Arizona from suspending or revoking the licenses of businesses that employ illegal immigrants. Several organizations – including the Chamber of Commerce – argued the state law was preempted by the federal Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 – which forbids states from imposing sanctions for hiring illegal immigrants. But Chief Justice John Roberts wrote in a 27-page opinion that the Arizona licensing provisions fall within the federal statute’s savings clause – and otherwise does not conflict with the federal law.

Several states have enacted measures that seek to penalize employers for hiring illegal workers – others are considering legislation similar to Arizona’s.