When our legislators violate the laws — be it ethics, gift-taking rules, campaign financing, business deals — we don't immediately call for them to be removed from office or thrown in jail. But, aren't we a nation of laws? Legislators need to apply that same standard as they keep debating immigration policies. Or, are they above the law? That's the part of "illegal" many of us don't understand.

American citizens, who are part of these families, worry that tomorrow their world will fall apart for no other reason than they fell in love. Are we really so full of fear that we cannot make a distinction between undocumented people who only want to raise good families, as opposed to those who pose a real threat to our country?

As Cupid aims his arrows this Valentine's Day, love still does not know borders. As our Legislature drafts laws on immigration, may it do so consistent with our "Utah values" that place the highest worth on families.

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Utah native John Florez has founded several Hispanic civil rights organizations, served on the staff of Sen. Orrin Hatch and on more than 45 state, local and volunteer boards. He also has been deputy assistant secretary of labor. E-mail: jdflorez@comcast.net