Best Of The Border (10/7 - 10/11)
Shutdown Means A Windfall For A Few Arizona Tribes
American Indian Tribes are feeling the impacts — both positive and negative — of the government shutdown.
Some have seen cuts to food distribution, child care and financial assistance for poor families. South Dakota tribes hit hard by last week's blizzard could use some heat assistance. Across the country tribal leaders are bracing for much worse.
Meanwhile, a handful of northern Arizona tribes have experienced an economic windfall thanks to the shutdown. Parks and landmarks on tribal land are seeing more tourism traffic.
Arizona Loses Appeal To Reinstate Section Of SB 1070
The state of Arizona has lost an appeal to reinstate part of its 2010 immigration enforcement law, SB 1070.
This decision came down to the ineloquent way Arizona's legislature worded the statute.
The panel found a phrase concerning the transportation of immigrants to be unintelligible and ruled the statute is voided because of vagueness.
Where do the different provisions of SB 1070 currently stand? Click here for a graphic.
Native Americans At Higher Risk For Flu Complications
Health Departments in the Southwest are beginning to see some of the first flu cases of the season. Officials warn there are many populations at higher risk for flu-related health complications.
“The American Indian, Alaska Native population has been shown to be at risk of influenza-related complications and even to have higher death rates,” said epidemiologist Joan Baumbach.
Immigration Reform Advocates Escalate Tactics
In spite of the federal government shutdown, thousands gathered on the National Mall in Washington on Tuesday to push Congress to act on immigration reform that includes a path to citizenship for immigrants in the country illegally.
The rally and march, called Camino Americano: March for Dignity and Respect, follows marches held in more than 100 U.S. cities last weekend.
