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Thursday, May 13, 2010

LA to Boycott Arizona Over Immigration Law

Los Angeles on Wednesday became the largest city yet to boycott Arizona over its tough new law targeting illegal immigration in a move that likely will affect some $8 million in contracts with the state.

The City Council voted 13-1 to bar Los Angeles from conducting business with Arizona unless the law is repealed. The vote followed an emotional council discussion during which many members noted that their ancestors were U.S. immigrants.

"Los Angeles is the second-largest city in this country," Councilman Ed Reyes said, CBS News Station KCBS-TV in Los Angeles reports. "An immigrant city, an international city needs to have its voice heard."

Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa already has said he would approve the boycott.

The proposal could affect investments and contracts worth as much as $52 million, including contracts for airport, harbor and trucking services, according to a report from the city's chief legislative analyst. That report recommends the council consider suspending travel, cutting contracts and refraining from making any new ones with Arizona-based companies. - CBS News Story

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