Mexican senator visiting Ariz. says Mexico preparing for influx once immigration law in effect

Mexican senator says gov’t preparing for Ariz. law

PHOENIX — A Mexican senator in Phoenix to learn more about Arizona’s new immigration law says Mexican government officials are preparing in case the law drives large numbers of people back to Mexico.

Sen. Silvano Aureoles of the central state of Michoacan said Tuesday that the Arizona law is already spreading fear among Mexicans that they could be stopped and arrested by police in Arizona based on their appearance.

Aureoles was part of a group of eight Mexican senators who met with business leaders — most of whom oppose the law — as well as with Attorney General Terry Goddard and interim Maricopa County Attorney Rick Romley.

Arizona’s law has sparked a debate across the U.S. about illegal immigration. It makes it a state crime to be in the country illegally and will take effect July 29.

Information from: The Arizona Republic, www.azcentral.com