PHOENIX -- The Arizona Legislature's leading advocate for cracking down on illegal immigration says a push to get local police departments to change policies discouraging officers from asking people whether they are legally in the country appears to be gaining momentum.

Republican Representative Russell Pearce of Mesa says the decision by Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon to change similar rules will help his efforts to get the Legislature to outlaw such so-called sanctuary policies in the coming year.

Several police agencies in Arizona don't inquire about the immigration status of people charged with misdemeanors and nonviolent crimes.

Advocates for tougher border enforcement argue the restrictions represent a lost opportunity for local police to seek out illegal immigrants who haven't come into contact with federal immigration authorities.

(Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)