Critics say the measures are unconstitutional
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Latino groups in a town in the US state of Pennsylvania are mounting a legal challenge to the local authorities' power to tackle illegal immigration.
The court is being asked to determine the legality of a regulation by the Mayor of Hazleton, Lou Barletta.
The regulation in question imposes fines on businesses which deal with illegal immigrants.
But, critics say it is unconstitutional and such powers can only be exercised by the federal government.
Closely watched
Last year, Hazleton became a focus of national attention last year when Mr Barletta bought in the new regulations to deal with illegal immigrants.
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Mr Barletta is defending the crackdown on illegal immigrants
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Mr Barletta introduced the regulations after blaming illegal immigrants for a rise in crime and saying they were destroying the quality of life in his town
Speaking to the BBC last August, he said: "As the mayor, I am no longer able to provide the public service that I should be providing to the legal citizens of Hazleton."
Around a third of the population in Hazleton is Latino, and up to 25% of them are living there without legal documentation.
The regulation targets the homes and jobs of illegal immigrants, penalties are issued to landlords who rent to undocumented migrants and businesses which provide them with employment.
Correspondents say the court challenge is being watched closely by local authorities in other US states.