Richardson hopes Congress will make immigration a major issue in 2011

Border governors call for US immigration reform

SANTA FE, N.M. — New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson says he’s hopeful that a comprehensive immigration reform bill will be considered early next year by Congress.

Richardson made the comments Monday at the closing of a meeting in Santa Fe of U.S. and Mexican border state governors.

Richardson co-hosted the meeting and was the only U.S. governor to participate along with the governors of six Mexican states. California Lt. Gov. Abel Maldonado filled in for ailing Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Richardson said it’s unrealistic to expect a congressional vote on immigration legislation before the November general election.

A joint statement by the governors said they recognize the need for comprehensive U.S. immigration reform.