Thread: House OKs bill to make illegal presence in Arizona a felony

http://www.kold.com/Global/story.asp?S=4705047

PHOENIX The state House today approved a bill to expand Arizona's trespassing law to make illegal immigrants' presence in Arizona a crime and to enable local authorities to arrest them.
The bill was approved previously by the Senate but now returns to that chamber to consider changes made by the House.

Under the bill, an illegal immigrant anywhere in Arizona would be guilty of a felony. Also, a law officer arresting someone for investigation of a crime would be authorized to question the person's nationality and immigration status.

The bill would permit a first-time violator to be turned over to federal authorities for deportation but also states legislative intent that a repeat offender should be criminally prosecuted.

All 32 yes votes _ one more than needed in the 60-member House _ came from majority Republicans, while six Republicans joined all 20 Democrats in voting against the bill.

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This is good news! Something positive to look at. At least some of the states are trying to do something constructive, which is a good sign.

Joe