The Arizona House has given its initial approval to a new bill on undocumented immigrants that require local governments to cooperate with federal immigration agents in their pursuit of them.
The Republican sponsored measure would require counties and municipalities to allow immigration officers to interview inmates in jail and receive information about them.
The legislation would also make local governments liable if anyone is injured by someone who is released, when there is a request for their confinement.
The bill has raised arguments from Arizona’s recent contentious history over immigration policy.
Supporters say it will restore the rule of law and add consequences for entering the country illegally. Opponents say it would break up families and unfairly undermine attempts to gain a path to citizenship.
Legislators approved the bill in a voice vote late last week. It now awaits a formal House vote.