UNITED STATES

NEW MEXICO, (AP):

The Albuquerque City Council split along party lines as it narrowly approved a non-binding measure expressing support for immigrants and calling for comprehensive immigration policy changes.

The council's vote Monday was 5-4, with Democrats in the majority and republicans in the minority.

The memorial offers support for business owners who immigrated to the United States and cited the role immigrants play in New Mexico's workforce and their children.

Debate was heated at times as opponents said it was too supportive of President Barack Obama's executive orders regarding immigration, but supporters refused to delete those provisions.

Councilor Dan Lewis opposed the measure, saying it included "very partisan statements."

Councilor Klarissa Pena said it was important to make a statement though the council can't make immigration policy changes.