As states nationwide are embroiled in battles over immigrants' rights, Maryland lawmakers are again wrestling with the contentious issue -- and showing signs of easing some restrictions.
The most recent flash point: a bill that would allow illegal immigrants to pay in-state tuition at Maryland colleges. Immigrant advocates think the bill has the best chance of passing in years. In 2003, the legislature approved the measure, but Gov. Robert L. Ehrlich Jr. vetoed it; this year, Gov. Martin O'Malley has pledged support.
Advocates view the endorsement as evidence of the new administration's embrace of immigrants regardless of their legal status. They say lawmakers seeking to clamp down on illegal immigration have taken notice and have pushed few get-tough provisions this session. An immigrants' rally is scheduled for tomorrow in Annapolis.
Eduardo Tapia, an illegal immigrant who lives in Hyattsville, said that if the legislature passes the in-state tuition bill, he could finally go to college.
"I have a dream that one day I might be sitting where you are," Tapia, 21, told a House of Delegates committee during a recent hearing on the tuition bill. "But I'm afraid that without college, all my dreams won't come true."
Opponents say they will continue to fight what they term a movement to make Maryland a "sanctuary state" for those who are in the country illegally.
"What we are doing is rewarding and providing benefits for people who broke the law," said Del. Patrick L. McDonough, a Republican from Baltimore County who has sponsored a bill that would make English the official language of his jurisdiction.
Still, immigrant advocates are sensing a more tolerant attitude toward immigrants among lawmakers.
"I think the climate has changed, and this body reflects what the majority of Marylanders think about immigration. We are an inclusive state," said Del. Victor R. Ramirez, a Prince George's County Democrat and sponsor of the in-state tuition bill. "Compared to four years ago, I think we're winning."
The opposing views exemplify the explosive battle being engaged in nationwide, as legislatures grapple with what to do about the country's estimated 12 million illegal immigrants. Maryland is home to about 250,000 illegal immigrants, according to a comprehensive Pew Hispanic Center report.
