A debate in Mexico about quashing benefits for illegal immigrants would likely draw worldwide attention, if taking place inside the government halls of Mexico City, not among selectmen in Western Maine.

Some in the town of Mexico believe Maine government, which is operating under a policy against asking a person’s immigration status, is slipping into a “sanctuary state.” Since misconceptions can drive this discussion, it’s best to clear the air first:

• In Maine, undocumented residents are ineligible for most public benefits, such as MaineCare and food stamps, and immigration status is checked. Some benefits are status-blind, though, like for Women, Infants and Children (WIC).

• Gov. John Baldacci, in 2004, did issue an executive order prohibiting state employees from inquiring about a person’s immigration status, but with the exception of determining eligibility for “programs, benefits or services,” where status is relevant. Law enforcement is exempt from this order, as well.

• Maine is one of six states with a flaw in its driver’s licensing that allows nonresidents to procure licenses. In 2006, this loophole was exploited by Polish nationals traveling to Maine to receive licenses.

• Matthew Dunlap, the secretary of state, issued a report in December recommending changes to Maine’s laws to seal this fissure. The report said this is “absolutely necessary for the proper enforcement of the law, for the meeting of public expectations as to the relative security of their credentials, and for the keeping of the public trust.”

This is what is happening. Mexico may demand Gov. Baldacci rescind his order, because it reputedly allows undocumented aliens to access benefits. This isn’t necessarily true; the Maine Department of Health and Human Services says applicants undergo screening for immigration status before enrolling.

Mexico’s effort, nonethless, underscores the growing national fears about immigration, which is tongue-tying presidential candidates, mostly with a string named “amnesty.” Though the pragmatist would say amnesty, in some form, is unavoidable, the notion now is political plutonium – deadly, and used as a weapon.

It’s easy for White House hopefuls and small-town boards to bellow about benefits and border control, when voices proffering what’s really needed – smart solutions – are silent. The collapse of comprehensive immigration reform in Congress last year punctuates this woeful reality.

Immigration gets bogged down by misinterpretations and name-calling, whether in Congress, Mexico, Maine, or the latest presidential campaign ad. It might feel good to call Maine a sanctuary state, but the comparison is unfair, given Maine isn’t much different than other states facing complex, federal immigration issues.

But the state’s unique deficiency – too-easy to obtain driver’s licenses – is being addressed, and it must be said Gov. Baldacci, in 2004, took the right approach with his order. Instead of having the state enforce – or not enforce – a law upon which they lack jurisdiction, he declared it off-limits.

Until federal reforms succeed, this is about the only policy that makes sense, so far.