Medical community speaking on immigration law - WAFF-TV: News, Weather and Sports for Huntsville, AL

The debate over Alabama's new immigration law is far from over.

Last week, civil liberty groups in the state filed a lawsuit in federal court to stop the law from going into effect September 1st. Now, some from the medical community say the new law will basically make it illegal to do their jobs.

Some argue it may come down to doctors and nurses turning people away who are sick to avoid being charged with a crime.

Is health care a privilege or a requirement? That's the question at the heart of continuous debate across the country and now taking on new meaning in the state of Alabama.

With the passing of House Bill 56, Alabama will have the toughest immigration laws in the country.

But there is probably one aspect of the law you haven't heard.

"We could be arrested for taking care of people, which is just against everything we stand for," said Mary Marr, Executive Director of The Aids Action Coalition

The Aids Action Coalition is a non-profit that cares for more than 500 patients in North Alabama infected with HIV.

Marr is concerned over the fact, the new immigration law makes it illegal for health care providers to serve those who are undocumented.

"The thought that we would keep healthcare from someone who has a need is just unconscionable," added Marr.

However, the law does include a provision to offer care for illegal immigrants but only in an emergency which rules out the care The Aids Action Coalition provides for so many.

Arizona's law still allowed doctors to treat patients regardless of their immigration status.

The Aids Action Coalition with the help of an attorney is fighting the law with a lawsuit.

"The Alabama law failed to include this provision. Therefore that's what has placed these health care providers in jeopardy. Treating those people and stopping the prevention of this disease should not put the person in a position where they can have to be afraid being prosecuted" said Eric Artrip.

Marr added it simply boils down to a public health concern which would spill over into emergency rooms.

"If they are not taking medications, if they are not receiving medications then they are more likely to infect other people."

Alabama joins Georgia, Arizona, Utah and Indiana in trying to pass tough immigration laws.

Judges have blocked key parts of laws passed in those states.