Deseret News | After delayed implementation, omnibus immigration bill passes Senate

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After delayed implementation, omnibus immigration bill passes Senate

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hooray!!!! | 6:18 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

what more is there to say?

Anonymous | 6:13 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

What a disappointment! Gov. Huntsman VETO this legislations. Laws are created all the time and some of them are bad as this one.

Anonymous | 6:15 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

I would like to know, what law undocumented immigrants brake. How is the law classified and what are it's penalties.
Can anyone tell me?

Comments continue below

Anonymous | 6:39 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

IT'S ABOUT TIME

Born American | 6:39 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

YES,WE,THE LEGISLATURE ARE PUTTING OUR COLLECTIVE FOOT DOWN AND WON'T TOLERATE THIS OUTRAGE ANYMORE!!
(starting a year from now,maybe,unless of course we change our minds(????) or the Governor,Congress,the President, or anyone with the least amount of actual authority raises the tiniest little objection of any sort for any reason,real or imaginary). What a pack of clowns we have 'running' this state. Throw the bums out!

It's a start | 6:49 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

Although I disagree with the delayed implementation, I appreciate Senator Hickman's efforts to get this through. He tried very hard to not allowed the delayed implementation.

Kudos to Senator Hickman and all those who supported him!

Loyal American | 6:44 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

Gov. Huntsman,
WE, the people of Utah have fought long and hard for this bill. The vast majority of Utahns and Legislators want it passed. Don't even consider a veto. A veto is NOT what the people want. We call upon you to support the opinion of the people who elected you.

Paul | 6:44 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

An okay bill. Just okay. Hard to know why it doesn't come into force March 1st and why it doesn't include private employers. But I guess we have some time to get that added.

Spanky | 6:50 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

The law doesn't go far enough. The next step should be to round up everyone who is in this country illegally, and send them back to their own countries.

C Jones | 6:51 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

The majority have spoken on this issue, now the Governor must have the courage to respect that. Illegals need to leave and come back when they can obey the law.

Park City Resident | 6:53 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

Good BUT why wait over one year to implement this bill... WE NEED IT NOW! Sounds like the legislature is stalling... waiting for McCain or one of the Democrats to come in and give complete amnesty to a group of people that have absolutely NO regard for US law.

It's a disgrace that the drivers license privilege was stripped from this bill.

Legal | 7:02 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

Huntsman sign it if you are a true AMERICAN. No one should be refused a job because they are not bilingual. If you veto this bill you are very much against those who live in this country legal and are showing your true colors - and they are not red, white and blue.

Hamilton in Highland | 7:16 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

I say if Mr. Huntsman vetos this thing, we get together and referendum this bill and get it on the ballot. It's about time we take back our country and all the money we spend on supporting illegals while they thumb their noses at us and break our laws. I hope the homeless citizens of this country will get the much needed funding they need to get off the streets - instead of housing and feeding those that have no legal right to be here. Hey, Mr. Anonymous, what is your last name HOLMES - so we can send you back...where you can get in line and come here legally.

Me | 7:20 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

Interesting to see that nobody made a law such as this for Mr. Brigham and his people when they came illegally into this territory. Same for the pilgryms, the natives had no chance. Enjoy the trouble to come.

Anonymous | 7:21 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

utah will be flooded by illigels coming from arizona

Ron Smith | 7:29 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

Alhough I recognize that there is a large problem with illelgal immigrants within our borders, I think that the passage of this bill and the "heaping on" for individuals who are already here trying to eat, live and pursue a better life, tells more about our hearts and selfishness than it does about the undocumented workers themselves. Many have seen Les Miserables and detest the government agent Joubert as he hounds Jean Valjean, for a lifetime. His original crime... stealing a loaf of bread to feed his family... it was after all the law!!! Have we become so hard hearted, to become like Joubert??? If we err on this issue, let us err on the side of compassion in every way. Perhaps LDS Pres Eyring's counsel should apply here as well: "We can begin today to try to see those we are to nourish as our Heavenly Father sees them and so feel some of what He feels for them." Feb 2008 Ensign Magazine.

The Governor needs to stand and do what is right in this case, regardless of public opinion.

Naz | 7:34 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

This feel much like the 1930's Germany. Are we going to put them into a "Getho" so we know who they are? Are we going to keep taking their taxes without a chance to be represented? I guess that there is not "Tea" to throw overboard for the immigrants . . . Did we really learned anything from our founding fathers? I guess not!!

About Time | 7:37 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

We can't go backwards in reference to Brigham and his lot. We are dealing with the laws of todays society. Get out of the past and live in the prsent and future. If we allow all the illegal aliens to stay because of their families then we need to open the prison doors and allow those people to go home and support their families too. Laws are laws for all not just illegals who will not learn the language of the USA and fly their countrys flag mmmm why don't they go home and fight for their rights in their countrys. Lets just open the flood gates and see how much the compassionate souls will accept into their neighbourhoods

We the people | 7:53 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

We the people? A few vocal minority is "THE PEOPLE"? give me a break. How can any of us say that we the people are favoring all this hate, anti-immigrant bills.

The way to properly say is "We the small vocal minority, anti-mexican want these bills passed"

The Raven | 8:10 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

Thank you Utah Senate for listening to the voters!

Larry Jones | 8:10 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

The people have spoken. The legislature has acted. The governor must not veto. Compassionate groups must now come up with a plan to deport with compassion.

Thank you | 8:26 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

My thanks to the Senate. Now on to the House. We aren't out of the woods yet, folks. Gov, check out the vote tallies.

You | 8:30 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

I thought that Church and State was something of the past or that only happens in South America. I guess that in Utah Church and State, whoever the "church" is, are the same. As far as I can see the "church" says and the "lawmakers" wannabe do what they say. The "church" just want to keep their hands clean and to be kept out of trouble . . . all that in the name of being more Christian. Try again! Do it for the people they fellowship, not as a coverup to protect themselves.
Maybe the Senators who created this bill are being manipulated by Church interests . . . membership perhaps, or maybe they were promissed Eternal Salavtion or "election". What a joke!

Jay | 8:43 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

This legislation does not go far enough. It is filled with loopholes, caveats, exceptions, and other nonsense.

Those who spout off about compassion should join the illegal immigrants and go back to some other country. And that inlcudes LDS Church leaders who should be ashamed for their blatant interference with legislative processes where they have no business cramming their superstitious sentiments down others' throats. Amen to the priesthood of those men!

This legislation will have to do for now. Stronger legislation should be forthcoming.

Anonymous | 8:43 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

"Education institutions exempt"...

Well a lot of good that will do. That is where the biggest problems are hitting us. No wonder our schools are so overcrowded.

Ya Sure | 8:45 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

SB97 does not go into effect until July 2009.
Might as well be 2109, anything can happen between now and then. The language of the bill will be amended (softened) before it ever goes into effect.
Might as well pass S97 and make some money studying them illegals.

Please Mr. Huntsman | 8:48 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

Veto this bill! I as well am tired of all the hate and anti-immigrant rhetoric. Naz (above) is dead on, look at history and try to have some compassion for people trying to make the best out of their lives.
If you were born in Mexico or other Latin American countries you would be trying to get to America too. Who wouldn't want their chance at an average GDP per capita of $48,000. Compare that to Latin American countries (cia.gov then go to world factbook).

Yea, thank you | 8:54 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

Yea! Thanks to the Senate for making our food more expensive, for putting a whole in the econimy of the State. Look at Oklahoma, learn something from them. These senators wannabe are just making deals with church and who knows who else to put more money in their pockets. I'd bet you the people who work in their front yards are Illegals . . . and they use them, just like you all.

Re: Jay | 8:56 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

If you don't like what we have here in the U.S. where we say, "give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yerning to be free," or where we declare that "all men are created equal." Then you leave to some other country, maybe somewhere like Cuba, or North Korea. Our country was founded on, among other things, compassion, opprotunity, and freedom of speech. So if you don't like Church leaders "who spout off," then you get out.

Brandon | 9:01 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

Don't think for a second that Prince John won't smirk at this bill. When will the people of Utah understand that his majesty and the taxes and legislation associated with his dominion are a great burden on the state?

I am a member of the "Church". Despite this I think Huntsman makes Mike Leavitt look like Richard Nixon. Moreover, as a member of the armed forces I have no qualms in calling Harry "the body" Reid a traitor. Get the sense that I have a bone to pick with these ridiculous bureaucrats?

Wow - Wee | 8:57 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

It's a start but the delay makes our state look like Utah will be the easiest on illegals.

A criminal once convicted receives their punishment right from court.

An illegal (criminal by breaking the law)immigrant gets all this time to keep breaking the law of the land and making the legal citizen pay even more for all their "free" services because they cannot pay. Went to the ER the other night and they (Hospital)had to have interpreter due to the fact they did not understand english. Then all five of the family memebers were in there for COLDS. Not only did this take a very long time but what kind of money are the citizens of this state and country losing for the free care and the interpreter?

This really should not be this tough. Why are our politicians (voted in by the legal citizen)worried about our economy and racial profiling?

The President of Australia I believe has it correct. If you don't want to speak English then leave. If you don't like Utah or Arizona or any other state then you're free to leave. If you hate the U.S. then again, leave.

Stewart | 9:07 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

I think we got along fine before all of the illegal aliens flooded our state and depressed wages for our unskilled and entry level workers. I don't think there is an economic problem, because as soon as they leave the state will save millions by not having to support them in school, hospitals, and welfare. So we pay a little more for our food but save much more on our taxes.

Of course the cheap labor employers may have more of a problem along with the merchants that depend on them as customers, but these will all balance out economically and we will never miss them. Those legally in the country welcome!

Please Mr. Huntsman | 9:14 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

Please veto this law!!! You have common sense.
I don't want to have to pay more just to satisfy Billy Hick-man's personal interest in making history by making a law that put him in history. What a legacy he wants to leave for his kids. "Hey I was the one who made Utah's economy crumble in 2008-2009 by passing a law who did not help anybody economically, but I got my Eternal Salvation / Election"

Abe Lincoln | 9:36 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

I hate this ignorant heartless hypocritical country. And my ancestors came over on the Mayflower. Too bad it's not legal for me to work in other countries, or I'd be gone like that. What a bunch of hypocrites we are. Very sad.

Common sense | 9:49 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

What about "ILLEGAL" do some people not get?

Our ancestors came here LEGALLY.

How can anyone condone illegal behavior?
Seems to me the hypocrisy is on those that turn a blind eye to illegal acts and then blames people who honor the law and believe in the rule of law.

Give it a break!

Anonymous | 10:09 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

can any body take a moment end think about the sons of this immigrants, alot of them are in irak
can you look at the eyes of this soldiers at the time they get back from irak and give thanks..... by the way I DEPORT YOUR MOTHER

mustberight | 10:13 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

What a hoot!! This law says absolutly nothing. And way a year and a half away? Are these people serious? Why do you put up with such nonsense? Glad our AZ illegals have a safe place to go. ROFL Only in Utah!!

Beartrace | 10:13 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

Why do we not understand that illegals take jobs from US citizens - at less money? Greedy employers use illegals almost like slaves - low cost wages, no benefits. The greedy get cheap labor, we get to pay the cost of schools, hospitals, prisons, social services - and the risk of how many dangerous criminals and terrorists. But, hey, let's be compassionate - and STUPID.
I wonder how many illegals work for the companies owned by senators like Scott Jenkins who fight against legislation? Isn't that a conflict of interest, and a breach of ethics as well as the law?

anonymous | 10:13 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

None of these laws are going to go too far...
most people here in utah don't have a CLUE how many undocumented people work in the state, and as long as they don't get in legal troubles, they live like anyone else, but in a little more difficult situation, that's all. And yes, it is evident that people who don't want these undocumented human beings here are trying to do something about it, espeially if they have influence in the government.
Everybody at some point breaks the rules, or the law, or at least most people do, so it's very hypocritical to condemn illegal aliens because of their legal status, when most of them are simply working and trying to live.
I honestly think something will happen when we get a new government, not before.

re:Common Sense | 10:13 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

"Our ancestors came here LEGALLY."

Sure, except for the native tribes that have been exterminated LEGALLY, and just recently given the right to vote.

I don't think they are breaking any Mexican laws to get here, the same way my ancestors did not break any European laws to get here.

The fact that the local Tribes tried to fight them off should give you pause to think that maybe, just maybe we did steal this land, and everyone getting on the submarine always wants to close the hatch behind them.

Common sense says educate people, we have an educated workforce.

Oh, it's not that their here, it's OK to pay them below minimum wages without insurance and OSHA, but don't let them challenge my son or daughter for a good paying job.

juliany | 10:44 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

It is a matter of time.
D;C 20: 14-16 And the Father hath commanded me that I should give unto you this land , for you inheritance. etc etc etc.......

Great | 10:49 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

I am glad that things are actually getting done around here. Sorry law breakers, you may stop benefiting from breaking the law.

Lane Meyer | 10:57 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

The one thing I feel good about is that I am doing what I can to get statesmen elected like Ron Paul.

The rest of you should really look at this man and support him and people of his kind. The days of this kind of treachery will be shortened if we come together for the purpose of freedom and restoring the republic.

Janey | 11:01 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

Yes, ditto to every poster who asks Governor Huntsman to sign this law. It isn't perfect and there are more things which should be added. But thank the Man above, it is a start.

I hope the legislators aren't playing stupid games again by holding implementation until July, 2009. That's a long time when we have been waiting so long for justice. I am very leary about this factor.

Also to those who say that Americans also came here illegally and took the land from the indians, I say this, "Where did the indians come from?" Maybe they were amoebas coming out of the Great Salt Lake? Or maybe, as dna has recently proven, they came from other countries and settled here themselves.

Anonymous | 11:28 p.m. Feb. 25, 2008

Ancestors came LEGALLY? is STEALING this LAND, not AGAINST THE LAW. WOW illegal behavior, what happen to all men are created EQUAL, they have the same dreams like any one of us here FYI.

Patriotic but sad Utahn | 1:45 a.m. Feb. 26, 2008

'Give me your tired your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, send these the homeless temptest tossed to me'. I had to memorize that phrase in 5th grade. It is the welcome greeting on the Statue of Liberty and was the welcome greeting to greet immigrants entering Staten Island.

We are a country that was founded on immigration. All of us except for the Native American can trace our roots back to immigration. Unfortunately some of the commentary that has been made regarding this piece of legislation and during the overall immigration debate has caused me to wonder if our country is no longer in support of immigration.

Too many of us have twisted the 'illegal immigration' debate into 'anti-immigration'. We need to remember that immigration is essential for the long term vitality of our country and economy. If you disagree with me take one look at the Japan demographics and their immigration policy.

We need legislation that makes immigration more transparent and smooth. We have illegal issues because current immigration processes are broken. Most immigrants would come here legally if the process was in place for them to do so but the current process take too long.

Jeff | 2:22 a.m. Feb. 26, 2008

Very good.

PM | 11:03 a.m. Feb. 26, 2008

I second (third)"Patriotic but sad Utahn"s comments.

I hate ignorant people | 8:40 p.m. Feb. 27, 2008

I also agree with Patriotic.I am an American citizen married to a beautiful mexican woman who came here illegaly. We have been trying for almost 3 years to get her papers right but still no luck I am here in Utah and she lives in Mexico now the government says it is not a hardship to live apart from your spouse. People think if you marry a citizen you automatically get papers well this is not the case it takes about 3 to 4 years and over 10k dollars to get papers. People in Mexico wait on averge over 5 years to get papers to come here will you wait 5 years to feed your family? The process is a joke and it doesn't work. I miss my wife very much I hope she is allowed to come back home soon. She has never been in any trouble with the law and has been here over 7 years speaks perfect english. We are all apart of one race the Human Race lets start acting like it Our ancestors would be ashamed of our behavior today

charly | 12:01 a.m. March 5, 2008

if all iligal iimigrants would leave utah the
good economi we're enjoying would be nothing more than a good memory.

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