The state of Florida cannot enforce a controversial new law aimed at preventing undocumented immigrants from entering the state, the U.S. Supreme Court said Wednesday. Why it matters: The high court's rejection of the state's emergency appeal leaves in place a lower court's decision to pause the law while legal challenges continue.

The case, brought by immigrant advocacy groups, raises questions about whether and how states can police illegal immigration.

The Supreme Court has refused to allow Florida to enforce an immigration law making it a crime for people who are living in the U.S. illegally to enter the state. The high court’s action