Okla. House panel approves illegal immigration bill that focuses on human trafficking


THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
First Posted: May 13, 2011 - 6:29 pm
Last Updated: May 13, 2011 - 6:29 pm



OKLAHOMA CITY — A House panel has approved a bill on illegal immigration that focuses primarily on human traffickers, prompting criticism from members of both parties that the bill does little to address the problem.

The measure by Rep. George Faught was signed out of a House conference committee late Friday. The Muskogee Republican says it is the result of input from law enforcement and mostly targets human smugglers and others who prey on illegal immigrants. It also authorizes police to recommend immigrants for certain types of visas if the immigrants report and aid in reporting illegal criminal activity.

Some Democrats and hard-line Republicans complain the bill does little more than placate voters who wanted action on illegal immigration.

Harsh illegal immigration critic Rep. Randy Terrill called the bill "disingenuous and disgraceful."

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