PROPOSITION 187 SUPPORTERS SEEK TO PLACE SIMILAR MEASURE ON 2000 CALIFORNIA BALLOT

California is often considered an indicator of future trends in the US.  Fashion, food and even laws find their start in California.  For example, California passed Proposition 187, a harshly anti-immigrant measure in 1994, and in 1996 Congress followed suit with a law that went even further in some respects.  Most provisions of Proposition 187 were declared unconstitutional by a federal judge, and the measure itself died this summer amid legal negotiations.  However, the sentiments that motivated Proposition 187 have not gone away.  Supporters of the measure have requested the California Attorney General issue an official title for their new proposal, a state constitutional amendment that would have much the same effect as Proposition 187.  Issuing a title is the first step in placing the measure on the ballot. After that, 670,816 signatures must be obtained.

The amendment would prohibit the California Legislature from approving any new laws designed to provide benefits for undocumented immigrants.  It would also mandate that police officers check the immigration status of every person who is arrested.  It would further require state agencies to verify the identity and eligibility of all applicants for public benefits. 

Thus far, California Governor Gray Davis has declined to comment on the new proposal, saying he will not until the measure is officially on the ballot.  Gov. Davis, elected after Proposition 187 was passed, is on record opposing the measure.

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