Crowding Bill Given Slim Odds In Virginia

Manassas is unlikely to get any help from the state when it comes to its problem with illegal immigration.

Sen. Charles J. Colgan (D-Prince William) told the City Council at a luncheon Monday that two of the city's legislative priorities -- to combat crowding and to train local law enforcement to expedite federal deportation proceedings -- will be tough to sell to the Virginia General Assembly.

Manassas Park's top legislative priority for 2007 also is crowding.

The Manassas City Council requested legislation that would strengthen the city's ability to enforce single-family zoning districts.

"It is a matter of health. It is a matter of safety. And it is a matter of public welfare that we ought to maintain that single-family district," said City Manager Lawrence D. Hughes.

"It has already been before the Senate. An explosion took place," said Colgan, the state's senior senator, referring to legislation introduced and withdrawn by former senator Leslie L. Byrne several years ago.

Byrne's bill met fierce opposition from minorities, who said the measure would give localities the right to discriminate, Colgan said. The senator said a study "would probably receive a much better reception" than a bill on what he called a controversial issue.

"There is a desire to see something happen, and that obviously equates to legislation as opposed to a study commission," said City Attorney Robert W. Bendall. He added that a study looking at all issues related to crowding and illegal immigration could bring interested parties together to "find a solution that addresses the needs."

Freshman state Del. Jackson H. Miller (R-Prince William), who ran on a platform opposing illegal immigration, said he plans to introduce the legislation.

"Obviously, I would like to see action, but if it goes to a legislative study and we can obtain more information to improve the legislation, I'm all for that as well," said Miller.

Colgan also noted that prior attempts by city officials to regulate crowding were unsuccessful.

"I understand the problem, but you live within the Constitution," he said.