Thread: R.I.: Impact of Carcieri’s immigration order under scrutin

Impact of Carcieri’s immigration order under scrutiny
01:00 AM EST on Saturday, November 20, 2010

By Philip Marcelo

Journal Staff Writer


PROVIDENCE — An executive order issued by Governor Carcieri more than two years ago to curb illegal immigration has resulted in the dismissal of one state employee, the rejection of about a dozen bid proposals from potential state vendors, and referral to federal immigration authorities of nearly 40 criminals suspected of being here illegally.

Four state troopers have been trained in immigration enforcement, and the Department of Corrections has implemented a faster process for deporting criminal immigrants –– although no inmate has yet been deported.

These are among the facts provided by the governor’s office, the state police and the Corrections Department this week on the impact of Carcieri’s controversial order. Carcieri’s administration and state police Supt. Col. Brendan P. Doherty argue the statistics prove that the order is working.

But Governor-elect Lincoln D. Chafee, convinced that the order has been both divisive and unproductive, has pledged to rescind it as one of his first acts upon taking office in January.

“It has ostracized our Latino communities and has proved ineffective,â€

rejection of about a dozen bid proposals from potential state vendors

Big deal, there are so many vendors out there bidding for state contracts. Who needs a dirty dozen? Illegal aliens need the contracts more than the state needs them.

But Governor-elect Lincoln D. Chafee, convinced that the order has been both divisive and unproductive,

Talk is cheap. This statement is so weak.

Dixie