Official claims comic warrants disaster area status

Fri., Jan. 14, 2005

Associated Press

NAMPA, Idaho – Commissioner Robert Vasquez wants Canyon County to be declared a disaster area, all because of a comic book that depicts ways to enter the United States illegally but safely.

Vasquez asked his fellow commissioners this week to seek an official disaster area designation because he fears the pamphlet, published by the Mexican government, will bring a flood of undocumented workers to the region.

“I am asking the board to vote in a declaration of an emergency that carries with it the dangers of illegal aliens crossing into the United States of America without medical inspections, bringing any number of contagious diseases, illegal drugs or other criminal intent,” Vasquez said.

The commission took no immediate action on the request. Commission Chairman Matt Beebe said he doubted a comic book warranted official emergency action.

“I’m not sure that it meets the state definition for a disaster,” he said.

Vasquez, himself of Mexican, Spanish and French descent, has been known for his outspoken stance against illegal immigrants. He said by declaring an emergency, the county can prepare for any budget contingencies that may develop.

Last year Vasquez tried to bill the Mexican government $2 million for reimbursement of jail and medical treatment costs he claimed the county provided to Mexican citizens.

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