New bill attacks AZ’s illegal students

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Posted: 7:43 PM
By: Steve Kuzj

PHOENIX - Tempers flared at the capitol Tuesday as lawmakers discussed a new bill which would keep children of undocumented immigrants out of school.

State Bill 1611 could be the next big controversial law. It forces everyone from kindergartners to college students to prove they are legal U.S. citizens, or have a lawful presence if they go to schools in Arizona.

Home-schooled students would also be subjected to the proposed law.

The Senate Appropriations Committee heard arguments on SB 1611 in an afternoon session Tuesday.

The bill, pushed by Senate President Russell Pearce, R-Mesa, cracks down on illegal immigration by also forcing drivers and workers to prove their legal status.

"This is a sad day for the state of Arizona,â€