Georgia Legislature Follows Arizona’s Lead on Immigration

Both chambers of the Georgia legislature have passed an immigration bill similar to Arizona’s in its strong stance against illegal immigration. But the bill may not turn into law, Politico reports.

Ga. Gov. Nathan Deal

During last year’s campaign, Republican Gov. Nathan Deal advocated an immigration law based on Arizona’s. But he has changed his tune since the election, now saying that an immigration law shouldn’t put “undue burden” on employers. His office Thursday refused to disclose whether he will sign the bill.

The Georgia state Senate approved the bill by a 37-19 vote, and the House voted in favor by 112-59.

The bill mandates that employers with more than 10 workers use the federal government’s E-Verify system to check workers’ immigration status. Police could check the status of some suspects and detain them.