Senate quarrels over enforcing state immigration law

By ANNA GRONEWOLD
Associated Press

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) – Some North Carolina senators say they fear a bill creating penalties for entities that do not comply with state immigration law could give the attorney general unwarranted power to investigate citizens and handle state dollars.

The Senate on Monday gave tentative approval to a bill that would deny funding for schools and roads from cities or counties that accept identification cards from nonprofit organizations or which establish “sanctuary policies.” Supporters say the ID cards are invalid and discourage immigrants from obtaining lawful status. Opponents say the bill unfairly ties education and transportation resources to immigration policy.

The bill would eliminate an exemption for law enforcement to use the cards, and would allow people to report non-compliant entities to the attorney general.

The measure requires one more Senate vote.

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