Immigration proposal faulted
Mary Lolli
Hamilton Journal News
Sep 14, 2006
A proposed bill detailing measures to enforce illegal immigration laws in Ohio would establish two new government agencies, but falls short, say local officials who initiated its creation, of addressing goals they set.
House Assistant Majority Whip Bill Seitz, R-Green Township, on Tuesday presented a draft immigration bill to the House Judiciary Committee for review - just shortly after unveiling it to House colleagues and other interested parties.
The bill contains 25 key elements, including:
Requiring contractors to verify the legal status of employees.
Prohibiting persons who receive state grants or loans from hiring illegal immigrants.
Prohibiting the awarding of state student financial aid, and certain public assistance, to illegal immigrants.
The bill also calls for the establishment of an Office of Immigration Compliance and an Office of Immigration Outreach.
But it wouldn't establish a state law that would give local law enforcement agencies the authority to arrest and detain suspected illegal aliens - a key provision recommended by the Buckeye Sheriff's Association and local officials who sought a state initiative.
