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In a move that has sparked both praise and criticism, New Mexico Governor Maria Lopez signed a controversial immigration bill into law yesterday. The bill, known as the Immigrant Protection Act, aims to provide additional protections for undocumented immigrants living in the state.Under the new law, local law enforcement agencies will be prohibited from cooperating with federal immigration authorities in most cases. This means that undocumented immigrants who come into contact with police will not be turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) unless they have been convicted of a serious crime.Governor Lopez defended her decision to sign the bill, stating that it is necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents of New Mexico, regardless of their immigration status. She emphasized that the state has a long history of embracing immigrants and that they contribute greatly to the economy and culture of the region.However, critics of the law argue that it will only serve to attract more undocumented immigrants to the state and could potentially lead to an increase in crime. They also believe that it undermines federal immigration laws and puts a strain on resources for local law enforcement.In response to the controversy surrounding the bill, Governor Lopez has announced plans to increase funding for immigrant support services, including legal aid and resources for those seeking citizenship. She also stated that the state will continue to work with federal authorities on issues of national security and border enforcement.The Immigrant Protection Act is set to go into effect on July 1st, and its impact on the state's immigrant community remains to be seen. As the debate over immigration policy continues to rage on at the national level, New Mexico's stance on the issue is sure to draw attention from across the country.