Texas Mulls Arizona-Style Illegal Immigration Law

March 3, 2011 10:31 AM

Authorities check vehicles for illegal immigrants and contraband at a roadside checkpoint on June 1, 2010. (credit: Scott Olson/Getty Images)

AUSTIN (AP) – State and local police officers would be allowed — but not required — to help enforce federal immigration laws under a compromise plan working its way through the Texas Legislature.

The bill is a far cry from some of the harsh crackdowns some lawmakers proposed, but it still sparked often emotional testimony in a House committee Wednesday night. Dozens of supporters and detractors packed a hearing room outside the Texas Capitol, eager for a chance to air their views despite the late hour.

Supporters generally said the legislation would help police identify illegal immigrants who commit crimes in Texas. Critics said it would lead to racial profiling, detract from real police work and give license to rogue agents who want to harass immigrants.

The bill’s author, Republican Rep. Burt Solomons, said it would prohibit so-called “sanctuary citiesâ€