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State religious leaders oppose immigration bill

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JACKSON, MS (Mississippi News Now) -

Religious leaders from across the state are adding their names to the long list of folks in opposition of House Bill 488, also known as the immigration bill.  

Representatives from just about every faith background brought their concerns to the state capitol Thursday afternoon. While they agree immigration reform is needed, they say the bill in current form would create more harm than good.

The bill is modeled after the one in Alabama which when into effect last year. Religious leaders say Mississippi's image would greatly tarnished if the bill becomes law.

"It will create a greater climate of hostility and suspicion and fear. We know this is true because we have seen what has come to pass in the state of Arizona and we have seen what has come to pass in our neighboring state of Alabama," said Bishop Hope Morgan Ward with Mississippi's United Methodist Church.

The bill was sent to a senate committee Wednesday and is waiting to be taken up.

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