Thread: MD: Immigration issue grows

Immigration issue grows
U.S. debate spurs local consideration of illegal population
Bradley Olson

For years, Maryland’s Democrat-led General Assembly has sidestepped serious debates over illegal immigration, but with the issue at the forefront of the presidential race and in the minds of many voters, that might no longer be possible, legislative leaders acknowledge.

While most lawmakers say this year’s crop of immigration bills - most of which attempt to cut off benefits to those who can’t prove they’re in the country legally - have little or no chance of passing, boosters of the legislation have their hopes up that they will at least generate a rigorous debate.

Seeking to handle the matter on their terms, several Democrats are supporting legislation to study the footprint of immigration statewide, including an analysis of the costs of illegal immigrants and how much they pay in taxes.

“Every issue has its time,â€

It's very frustrating to see party affiliation trump the safety and will of the American people. How sad for us.