Texas state lawmakers are pushing ahead with plans to execute an Arizona-style immigration law, increasing the total number of state considering implementing the controversial measure to almost a dozen.
Under the existing proposal Texas, state and local police officers would be permitted, but not necessary to help out enforce federal immigration laws under a negotiation plan working its way through the Texas Legislature.
The move is intended to signify a compromise amongst Democrats and Republicans. Immigrant rights activists say they are against the measure, expressing concerns that it could lead to racial discrimination.
A number of states are taking into consideration similar measures, however, no one has passed this far.
The Texas bill is crafted in part on the measure approved and signed into law in Arizona. Arizona governor Jan Brewer touched off a blaze after she signed the bill, ultimately culminating in a lawful challenge from the Justice Department.
