GEORGIA

With one of the nation’s most rapidly growing Latino populations, Georgia has passed some of the nation’s most punitive immigration laws, including HB 529 which requires local governments to use E-Verify and prevents undocumented immigrants from working and receiving public benefits. Various counties in Georgia also participate in the controversial 287(g) program.

Political Landscape

2011 Session: January 11 –April 1, 2011
Senate: Republicans retain control (D – 21; R – 35).
- State Senator Jack Murphy (R–Cumming), co-chairman of the Joint House and Senate Study Committee on Immigration Reform, wants to push forward Arizona-like legislation.
- A special session on immigration was held one week before the elections to discuss the possible bill.
House of Representatives: Republicans retain control (D – 71; R – 108).
- A group of lawmakers is said to have drafted a bill for introduction, but few details have emerged on the members or their plans.
Governor: Governor-elect Nathan Deal (R) is a staunch critic of comprehensive immigration reform and has vowed to pass Arizona-like legislation as governor.

NCLR’s Georgia State Assessment: Very likely to be debated

Given Georgia’s legislative history, party breakdown, and gubernatorial candidates’ statements, Georgia seems likely to debate this issue. Legislators in that state will be looking at the Arizona court case closely to craft legislation.