New Arizona Immigration Law in Effect

Arizona's new controversial law goes into effect, but without some of the provisions that angered opponents.

From the White House to California to the hot seat of this issue - Arizona - people are furious over the state's new immigration law.

Also infuriating to many Arizonans is judge's decision to put its most controversial provisions on hold.

"I found the judge's decision absurd", said Rep. Darrell Issa (R-CA).

"We cannot continue to criminalize parents who want to be here for their children", declared Celina Benitez of the Southern California Immigration Coalition.

What takes effect today is a watered-down version of the law. Police cannot arrest people for not carrying legal papers.

Arizona Sheriff Joe Arpaio says law or not, he'll continue his campaign against illegal immigrants.

"If they arrest 1000 tomorrow. I've got room for 1000. 2000, I got no problems with that", said Arpaio.

Much of the outrage is directed at Arizona's governor, but she's unfazed.

"I look at this as little bump in road", said Governor Jan Brewer (R-AZ).

Yet this is just the beginning of what could have a big impact on upcoming elections.

"It's going to keep this matter I think in a very high-profile situation through November,” predicted Bruce Fein of the American Freedom Agenda.

And that's the concern on Capitol Hill.

Comprehensive reform isn't expected to happen this year, but many of these lawmakers are in tough re-election battles and may have to answer for it anyway.