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.

As the federal government faces backlash for a harsh immigration crackdown, Florida and a handful of other states look to join their ranks.

Florida passed a law making it a crime for people in the U.S. illegally to enter the state. A federal judge said it's likely unconstitutional.