The state's legislature passed a measure that would crack down on illegal immigration. Governor Nathan Deal has to sign the bill before it becomes law. But some local Hispanics, like Lillian Sanchez, say, if the bill is enacted, it could do more harm than good.
"On one side, yes, I understand that they want you to correctly follow the law," Sanchez said. "But the only law we're breaking is not having documentation."
The bill's impact could be felt strongly in areas like Dalton.The Hispanic population has grown tremendously there in the past 10 years. In fact, the group now makes up more than 30 percent of Whitfield County's population, according to the U.S. Census.
Among some of its measures, the bill would let authorities check someone's legal status when they stop them for violations. It would also require employers with 10 or more workers to use a federal database to check the status of new hires.
Sanchez, and her friend, Irma Ibarra,volunteer for the local chapter of the Coalition of Latino Leaders. They believe the bill will unfairly target Hispanics and hurt the local economy.
"People who are here they want to work they don't care about what the job is because they have a family to support," Ibarra said.
Spencer Zeiger is the dean of social work at Dalton State College. He says he understands those worries but middle ground has to be reached.
"There should be equal access to employment and fair rights, but I think people do need to be here legally in order for that to happen," he said.
Governor Nathan Deal has pledged to sign the bill.'
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