At least 1,169 pieces of legislation designed to address immigration or immigrant-related issues have been introduced in all 50 states which is more than twice the total number of bills considered during 2006.
"There's no question that immigration reform is one of the nation's most pressing issues and it should come as no surprise that state legislators are responding accordingly," said Texas Senator and NCSL President Leticia Van de Putte. "However, what is extremely disappointing is Congress' inability to craft a comprehensive immigration reform solution. Washington's inability to reach consensus has forced states to roll up their sleeves and get the job done."
State lawmakers are not just talking about solutions. They're actually enacting them. At least 57 bills in 18 states (Arkansas, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Montana, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, South Dakota, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia and Wyoming) have been enacted.
While immigration policy falls under the purview of the federal government, the impact of these policies are felt directly by the states. States often must pay for the programs required by federal law and the services mandated by the courts with negligible federal reimbursements. Additionally, the arrival of immigrants into an area requires programs and policies specifically directed towards the needs of immigrants while encouraging economic, social, and civic life integration within the community. The weight of these needs can be heavy on states, especially in the areas of education, health, and law enforcement systems.
Senator Van de Putte believes the time is right for a comprehensive solution to the nation's immigration challenges.
"State legislators deeply care about immigration reform in this country and in a bipartisan fashion call on the federal government to pass legislation that will enhance our border security while also addressing the inequities in our current system," she said.
