Florida Republicans Push Arizona-Style Immigration Reform

Republicans in Florida, looking to push an immigration law in Florida similar to recent measures pushed in Arizona, will be heartened by a new poll taken by Rasmussen Reports. The poll found that Floridians want a similar measure to the one that passed in Arizona, with 62 percent favoring that type of legislation, 24 percent opposing and 14 percent remain undecided.

Thats good news for a host of Republicans in the Legislature looking to pass tougher laws on illegal immigration. On Monday, Rep. Kevin Ambler, R-Tampa, who is running for a seat in the state Senate, said he would try to introduce an Arizona-style immigration law. Sen. Mike Bennett, R-Bradenton, and Rep. William Snyder, R-Stuart, are looking to introduce a similar measure in 2011. Rep. Ritch Workman, R-Melbourne, has also been pushing an Arizona-style law for 2011.

These legislators could receive a boost if either of the two leading Republican gubernatorial candidates wins in November.

When I am governor, I will bring the Arizona law to Florida; until I can help make that possible, we need to stand with Arizona in their case against the Obama administration, said health care executive Rick Scotton Friday.

Scott also said he favored tackling immigration during the special session.

Taxpayers are on the hook to pay for the special session. Floridians should at least get some return on their investment with the passage of meaningful legislation and that is why I am urging the Legislature to pass an Arizona-style immigration law during this special session, said Scott on the campaign trail Monday.

Attorney General Bill McCollum --Scotts chief rival for the GOP nod -- said, if elected, he would crackdown on illegal immigration.

As governor, I will continue to enhance the authority of Floridas law enforcement officers and provide them with the resources necessary to crack down on illegal immigration and protect Floridas communities, said McCollum last week.

Read the full story and check back at Sunshine State News for other results from the poll.