Arizona cities consider joining legal action to block immigration law

AZ cities consider fighting immigration law

PHOENIX — At least three Arizona cities are considering a lawsuit to block the new immigration enforcement law.

The cities include Phoenix, Tucson and Flagstaff. Their possible legal action could lend momentum to the backlash over the harsh immigration crackdown.

Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon criticized the measure as “economically devastating.” But he was unable Tuesday to muster support from Phoenix City Council members to jointly file suit to block implementation of the law.

The mayor told reporters he retained legal counsel to prepare a lawsuit to file on behalf of the city.

In Tucson, council members want more time to discuss whether they should take legal action. Flagstaff council members are expected to review their legal options against the measure.