Apr. 23, 2010 – Controversial Arizona Bill (SB 1070) Signed into Law, Expanding the State’s Authority to Combat Illegal Immigration

“Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer signed into law Friday [April 23] the most restrictive immigration bill in the country [SB 1070], setting the stage for a showdown with the Obama administration and reigniting a divisive national debate less than seven months before congressional midterm elections…

Under Arizona’s new law, to take effect in 90 days, it will be a state crime to be in the country illegally, and legal immigrants will be required to carry paperwork proving their status. Arizona police will generally be required to question anyone they ‘reasonably suspect’ of being undocumented — a provision that critics argue will lead to widespread racial profiling, but that supporters insist will give authorities the flexibility to enforce existing immigration laws.”