States tackle immigration reform

States attempt to address immigration reform as talks continue in Congress

States are struggling with handling immigration reform on their own. State legislators recognize that a comprehensive immigration solution can’t come from the state level, said Dalton State political science professor Ken Ellinger, but they are passing laws as a result of their frustration with the federal government. Lack of consensus among members of Congress has stalled efforts to pass federal legislation.

According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, in the first quarter of 2009, state legislatures in all 50 states introduced 1,040 bills and resolutions relating to immigrants and immigration.

Today, in Washington, the Campaign to Reform Immigration For America will begin its national summit, aimed at pushing for the passing of comprehensive immigration legislation.

Also in the South:

ALABAMA: Democrat Marc Keahey wins District 22 Alabama Senate seat

ARKANSAS: Pilgrim's Pride sued by city of Clinton over plant closure

FLORIDA: State unemployment benefits extended for 20 more weeks

GEORGIA: Former Gov. Barnes expected to announce gubernatorial run today

KENTUCKY: Statewide unemployment on the rise

LOUISIANA: Legislators to wrestle over taxes, school dentists and dry wall today

MISSISSIPPI: Lawmakers hope for spending bill passage

NORTH CAROLINA: House budget writers unveil new round of cuts

SOUTH CAROLINA: State's economy posted growth of 0.8% in 2008 despite recession

TENNESSEE: Scientist says environmental bill could kill wildlife

VIRGINIA: Democratic candidates take careful positions on proposed widening of I-66

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