http://www.tucsoncitizen.com/daily/local/14756.php


Border bill posing dilemma
Veto or approval would put governor in difficult spot
The Arizona Republic

Gov. Janet Napolitano has until Tuesday to act on a GOP-sponsored bill cracking down on illegal immigration.
The bill, at 26 pages and a potential state cost of $160 million, would treat illegal immigrants as criminal trespassers, boost state funding for local law enforcement to deal with border-related crime and create new penalties for those who hire illegal immigrants.
Supporters have cast the bill as a comprehensive way to improve border security and reduce the incentives, whether employment or government services, that entice people to attempt to cross.
But critics say the bill is packed with problems, ranging from ineffectual employer sanctions to a trespassing provision unwanted by many local authorities. Napolitano is likely to cite those issues in explaining her decision.
The bill originally dealt entirely with employee sanctions and was so tough that it drew opposition from business groups across Arizona. A version with much of its teeth removed passed the House and appeared ready to clear the Senate in April when lawmakers overhauled it.
The bill comes as interest in illegal immigration has reached a high. Arizona is at the center of the national debate, with the state's porous southern border the most popular crossing point for migrants.
Republicans have long painted Napolitano as weak on border issues. Opinion polls indicate most Arizonans view illegal immigration as a top issue and, with an election looming, the GOP has ratcheted up the heat on the governor.
But timing also has worked against the GOP. After years of inaction, the federal government may be on the verge of a border breakthrough. President Bush is advocating a multipronged plan to boost border security, create a guest-worker program and provide a path to citizenship for millions of illegal immigrants.
Whether she signs or vetoes House Bill 2577, there will be ramifications for Napolitano. With a veto, she risks being viewed as an obstructionist to border security. A signature could offend Latinos and liberal voters in her base of support.