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Group voices concerns about North Carolina's proposed immigration bill

RALEIGH, N.C. — Towns and cities throughout North Carolina could lose road and school funding under a proposed law if immigration policies aren't enforced.

Orange cones and construction workers along roads are a common sight throughout Charlotte, but a proposed law could put funding for simple things like street resurfacing in jeopardy.

Republican lawmakers are pushing for House Bill 100.

The bill would prevent law enforcement from recognizing community or nongovernment ID cards. These are typically used by people who can't obtain legal documents.

It sets up an anonymous complaint process through the Attorney General's Office. The AG, along with the State Bureau of Investigations, would have to investigate any complaint.

If a city is in violation, some transportation funding for street resurfacing and repairs would be lost for the next budget year.

If a county is in violation, lottery school construction funds would be taken away.

"These kinds of laws bring very bad things," Rogelio Reyes, of Action NC, said.

The bill has prompted outrage from Latino activist groups, including Action NC. They say lawmakers are trying to sneak this by everyone quickly.

"It's a politics game. It's no more than that," Reyes said.

Republicans have defended the bill, saying it ensures local cities and counties are following the law -- and the penalties will keep them from violating it.

The governor has not indicated if he will sign the bill.

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