Immigration debate heats up in Florida

TAMPA - Personal service is one way Alberto Morrillo tries to keep customers coming back to Algusto's in Tampa. In this economy, it's the restaurants biggest challenge and he fears will only get worse if Florida adopts an Arizona style immigration law.

"How much more damage do you want to do, bring negative things to the state," Morrillo asked.

Alberto, now a U.S. citizen, emigrated from Ecuador decades ago. While he has concerns about the law's potential social implications, he says the economic impact could be even worse if the state, like Arizona, faces boycotts and a dip in tourism.

“You’re taking away the great values and just thinking in a party,” he said.

In Florida the issue of immigration has played out along party lines. Republican state law makers have already proposed similar bills. So, whether or not Florida adopts a similar law could depend on who we elect for governor.

Neck and neck in the polls, both Republican primary candidates Rick Scott and Bill McCollum say they support Arizona's law. While Democratic front runner, Alex Sink, opposes it because of potential economic fallout.

It's a debate that's playing out across the country as more than a dozen other states, including Florida, are at least considering an Arizona style law.

But Morrillo fears in Florida, the debate will end badly if lawmakers don't look at the bigger picture.

"We are here to rebuild the economy, rebuild the country, or you want to damage more," Morrillo said.