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04/29/2010 03:53 PM

News 8 Online: Controversial immigration legislation

By: News 8 Austin Staff

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A controversial immigration bill will be the focus of protests expected this weekend at the Capitol.

Protesters are hoping to discourage Texas lawmakers from following in Arizona’s footsteps, which among other things, recently made it a crime to be in the country illegally under state law.

The bill was signed Friday and will take effect in late summer.

Critics say this law gives authorities a license to racially profile and discriminate, while supporters say it addresses growing concerns over illegal drug trafficking across the state's border.

You can review the full text of the bill by clicking here. The government officials in Arizona have also made a fact sheet available online. Click here to read it.

The Washington Posts’ “Battle Over Immigration” section also provides a multimedia look at the debate, including a map that breaks down the issues with graphics and statistics.

A Texas lawmaker said recently she plans to push for a similar law for the state.

We’ll bring you more as this debate heats up in Texas, so stay tuned and stay connected with News 8 Online.