HOUSTON, TEXAS — Senator Dan Patrick left this morning on a trip to Arizona. He will be meeting with legislators and border sheriffs to learn firsthand how they are coping with illegal immigration.

"Arizona has taken a stand to protect their citizens and their economy from the impact of overwhelming illegal immigration in their state," said Senator Patrick. "After spending time on the Texas border with our sheriffs I want to learn how our problems, and our solutions, compare with Arizona," added Patrick.

Senator Patrick will also meet with legislators who authored the "Arizona Law" that has attracted national attention and a lawsuit from the federal government. Senator Patrick is planning to file a package of bills on the issue of illegal immigration.

"It is the federal government's responsibility to protect our borders," said Patrick. "Since they have failed to do their job, it is our responsibility as Texas legislators to do all we can to protect our citizens and our economy.