House Approves Illegal Immigration Bill

None by Eric Ray

(KCPW News) A bill that makes sweeping changes to Illegal Immigration enforcement in Utah passed the House of Representatives yesterday after more than an hour of debate. First Substitute Senate Bill 81 introduces restrictions that make it more difficult for undocumented immigrants to get jobs and public benefits.

The measure was amended several times during Monday's debate. One amendment makes contractors responsible for verifying the citizenship status of new employees, and makes subcontractors responsible for supplying affidavits to contractors declaring the certification of its employees.

The measure passed the House by vote of 56-15. It now goes back to the Senate for approval of the amendments before moving to Governor Jon Huntsman's desk. Senator Bill Hickman of St. George, the bill's Senate sponsor, says his discussions with the Governor lead him to believe the legislation will also have the support of the Executive Branch.

Click here to view the bill and listen to floor discussions pertaining to First Substitute Senate Bill 81. 

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