Blunt Crackdown on Immigration

JEFFERSON CITY - Governor Blunt wants illegal immigrants out of Missouri and he signed a new law Tuesday that might help him reach his goal.

Now 35 to 65 thousand illegal immigrants in Missouri need to start looking for work elsewhere.

"I'm pleased to sign legislation that will curb illegal immigration in our state," said Blunt.

The governor is taking aggressive steps to keep illegal immigrants out of Missouri.

"That will create what I would call an exodus of Latino immigrants that are in the area to work," said Latino advocate, Eduardo Crespi.

One of the many sections of this bill prohibits Missouri business owners from hiring illegal immigrants. Knowingly employing an illegal alien could result in a business losing its license.

"There is going to be a shortage of employees because there are certain jobs that, you know, some people just don't want to do it and we have to find replacements," said hotel owner Leela Jashnani.

The law also requires the state to give commercial driver's license tests only in English, with no translation help.

Also, the federal government is training the Missouri State Highway Patrol about immigration.

"Basically we'll give immigration (i.C.E.) 10 more officers in the state of Missouri to assist with the administrative process of removal of illegal aliens," said Maj. Ron Replogle of the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

Troopers are required to check citizenship of every person they arrest. Applicants for food stamps, housing, welfare and all other public benefits must now prove their U.S. citizenship. The new law also prohibits all sanctuary cities that protect illegal immigrants.
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