The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Louisiana has officially withdrawn its legal challenge against a state law that criminalizes interference with federal immigration enforcement efforts. The decision follows assurances from the Louisiana Attorney General’s office that the law will not be used to target free speech or other constitutionally protected activities.
The lawsuit, filed earlier this year, focused on Louisiana Act 399, a measure passed in 2022 that makes it a felony to knowingly obstruct federal immigration enforcement. Critics of the law, including local immigration advocacy groups, argued that the statute was overly broad and vague, raising concerns that it could stifle legitimate advocacy work, such as hosting "Know Your Rights" events for immigrant communities.
In a statement released last week, the ACLU explained its decision to dismiss the case without prejudice, meaning it reserves the right to refile in the future. The organization cited assurances from the Attorney General’s office that Act 399 would not be enforced in a way that infringes on First Amendment rights.
"After receiving confirmation that Act 399 will not be used to target speech or other protected activities, we have decided to dismiss our lawsuit at this time," the ACLU said in its statement. "We will continue to monitor the implementation of this law to ensure that constitutional rights are upheld."
The dismissal comes as immigration policy and enforcement remain contentious issues both nationally and at the state level. Supporters of Act 399 argue that it strengthens Louisiana’s ability to cooperate with federal immigration authorities, while opponents warn it could have a chilling effect on advocacy and community education efforts.
Local immigrant rights groups had expressed concerns about the law’s potential impact on their work, with some fearing legal repercussions for hosting informational events or providing resources to immigrant communities. While the ACLU’s decision to drop the lawsuit provides some relief, advocates remain cautious.
"We’re glad to hear these assurances from the state, but we’ll continue to be vigilant," said Maria Sanchez, a spokesperson for an immigration rights group involved in the original lawsuit. "Our work is about empowering communities with knowledge and resources, and we won’t let vague laws deter us from that mission."
As it stands, Act 399 remains in effect, but its enforcement will likely be closely scrutinized in the coming months. The ACLU has indicated that it is prepared to take further legal action if necessary to protect free speech and other constitutional rights.
The Louisiana Attorney General’s office has not issued any additional comments regarding the law or its enforcement following the ACLU’s decision.