Mayor Says Some Mexicans Living Illegally in L.A. Should Get Legal Status

(KFWB) 11.06.01, 7:05p --

Los Angeles Mayor Jim Hahn says Mexicans who have lived in the city illegally for years should be awarded some kind of legal status that would make them eligible for such privileges as in-state college tuition or drivers' licenses.

Hahn has spent the last two days in Mexico and made the statement at a news conference. He is trying to win over L.A.'s Latino voters, many of whom supported his rival Antonio Villaraigosa in the mayoral election. Hahn says there should be some kind of legal status to recognize people who have established themselves in California for a number of years.

He is also asking airlines to look towards Southland cities other than L.A. for expansion plans. He is urging airlines to help ease overcrowding at Los Angeles International Airport by taking advantage of other regional airports, like Ontario. He made the comments as he announced a new, daily Aeromexico flight from Ontario, Calif., to Hermosillo, Mexico.

Also, Hahn announced the opening of an international business development office to enhance the city's trade relationship with Mexico. Mexico is currently L.A.'s second-largest trade partner. The mayor met privately with President Vicente Fox before announcing the new office on Monday. Hahn says they hope to counter the economic downturn both areas have experienced since the terrorist attacks by creating mutual economic opportunities.

-- PHO (owennos@bigfoot.com), November 07, 2001