This just in: Patrick says no to Trooper MOA

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M Rudy

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Dec 21, 2006, 3:05:20 PM12/21/06

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YAY! good news!!!
-Michele

Mass. gov.-elect says no to trooper pact

By Glen Johnson, Associated Press Writer | December 21, 2006

BOSTON --Gov.-elect Deval Patrick said Thursday he will rescind a new
agreement between the state and federal authorities that allows State Police
troopers to arrest illegal immigrants.

The incoming governor said he believes the troopers have enough to do
already without having to also enforce the nation's immigration laws.

"If I have that power, I'm going to rescind that agreement," Patrick, a
Democrat, told reporters. "I do believe I have that power."

On Dec. 13, Republican Gov. Mitt Romney signed an agreement with federal
authorities allowing troopers to arrest and seek deportation of suspected
illegal aliens they encountered during their normal duties.

Under the terms of the deal with the U.S. Immigration and Customs
Enforcement agency, an initial group of 30 troopers was to receive five
weeks of specialized training next year, paid by the federal government.

Romney, a potential candidate for president in 2008, said at the time: "The
scope of our nation's illegal immigration problem requires us to pursue and
implement new solutions wherever possible."

The change marks the second split with the Romney administration in two
days. On Wednesday, Patrick said he cannot support a plan to remove tolls on
the western portion of the Massachusetts Turnpike.

Patrick takes office Jan. 4.

Shuya Ohno
Communications Associate

Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition (MIRA)
Tel#: (617) 350-5480 ext 204
Fax#: (617) 350-5499
so...@miracoalition.org