Florida GOP Leaders Back Stricter Immigration Bills

MIAMI (AP) - State lawmakers hope to pass a watered-down version of Arizona's tough illegal immigration laws this legislative session.

Florida Senate President Pro Tem Mike Bennett calls the latest proposals "immigration light." Republican leaders say the bills are part of a broad effort by states to pressure Washington to adopt a uniform set of immigration reforms. They will be taken up when the session opens March 8.

Civil rights groups say the state should be passing bills that are good for Florida not making political statements and fear racial profiling. Law enforcement agencies support some measures but say the bills could further stretch their limited resources.

Meanwhile business groups worry the proposals could scare off foreign investment and tourism.

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