Dozens urge Governor Brewer to veto immigration bill
Reported by: Eric English
Last Update: 4/17 11:08 pm

PHOENIX -- Outside of the downtown Sheraton, a small but vocal group chanted slogans and held signs Saturday night, demanding to have their voices heard.

They were hoping to catch the governor's attention as she spoke at an event hosted by the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

They want Jan Brewer to veto what could become some of the toughest immigration policies in the country.

Senate Bill 1070 would make it a crime for people to be in the country illegally, and it would require officers to ask about a person's immigration status if there is any doubt he or she is a US Citizen.

Protestors say it's too much.

"We feel like it's going to legalize racial profiling and cause tension between the latino community and the government," Orlando Arenas said.

Inside the hotel, the governor was also encouraged to veto the bill when it lands on her desk.

When she took the podium, she didn't give a definite answer, but did mention the measure.

"I hear you and I will what I believe is the right thing so that everyone is treated fairly," she said.

Hispanic leaders say there's a lot is riding on the governor's next move.

"We will remember this when she goes for governor. If she does sign this, she's not going to be governor," Salvador Reza said.

Supporters of the bill say it would cut down on crime and keep police officers and citizens safer.

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