Judge sees problems with Gwinnett’s ban on hiring illegals
Judge does not stop enforcement of ban being challenged by contractors
BEN SMITH
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

A federal judge said Tuesday that he sees legal problems with a Gwinnett County ordinance that targets companies that hire illegal immigrants.

Judge Clarence Cooper of U.S. District Court in Atlanta turned down a request to temporarily halt enforcement of the ordinance, but he made clear that he perceives legal problems with it.

The ordinance authorizes Gwinnett County to fine companies with county contracts if those companies hire illegal immigrants. A group of contractors sued the county a few days ago, arguing that Gwinnett overstepped its bounds with plans to fine companies for employing illegal immigrants.

During a court hearing Tuesday, the judge said he agreed with the contractors. He said it is the exclusive role of the federal government to impose fines or any other sanctions on companies that hire illegal immigrants.

“The court notes for the record that the ordinance is pre-empted by federal law in that it authorizes sanctions of employers,â€