The U.S. Supreme Court will hear arguments later this year over Arizona’s immigration enforcement law, SB 1070. But legislative leaders say that likely won’t stop lawmakers from debating more bills dealing with illegal immigration.  From Phoenix, KJZZ’s Mark Brodie reports.

MARK BRODIE: There is some sentiment that lawmakers should wait to see what the high court says about 1070. And while Senate President-elect Steve Pierce thinks that will be a consideration, he doesn’t think it’ll prevent the legislature from debating illegal immigration measures.

STEVE PIERCE: "It’s gonna be there, there’ll be some immigration bills, it’s gonna be important…however I think we’re gonna be working on primarily the economy of the state and getting the jobs in here and looking forward to what’s good for the people in Arizona and the citizens of Arizona, and what do they want."

MARK BRODIE: Pierce says illegal immigration is an important issue, and that lawmakers need to work on securing the state’s southern border.  That sentiment is shared by House Democratic Leader Chad Campbell.

CHAD CAMPBELL: "We have immigration problems, everybody knows that.  And there are certain things a state can do to alleviate some of those issues.  But, if we’re gonna talk about immigration, let’s talk about real solutions to the problem, let’s work with the federal government, let’s work with our federal representatives here in Arizona and get serious about fixing it with, again, a comprehensive approach."

MARK BRODIE:  Campbell, though, says illegal immigration bills should not get in the way of what he sees as the biggest issues facing the state - its economy, and job creation.  In fact, when asked, all four legislative leaders cited those as the top issues they’d be tackling when their session starts next week.