Ky. Senate Panel OKs Crackdown On Illegal Immigrants

Measure Allows Police To Check Immigration Status

WLWT.com
January 6, 2011
FRANKFORT, KY

Kentucky lawmakers have taken a first step toward a crackdown on illegal immigrants, sending along a bill that would allow police to determine the immigration status of people they detain.

The measure, backed by Senate Republican leaders, cleared the Senate Judiciary Committee on an 8-3 vote after a lengthy discussion Thursday.

The bill now heads to the full Senate.

The legislation also makes it illegal to harbor or transport illegal immigrants.

Supporters said Kentucky needs to strictly enforce immigration laws to halt the influx of illegal immigrants who cause a huge drain on government services.

Opponent Sen. Perry Clark, D-Louisville, called the bill a "12th century bill of rights" that is based on fear and political opportunism.

Republican state Sen. John Schickel, of Union, introduced legislation Tuesday that will allow police to arrest illegal immigrants on trespassing charges for setting foot in Kentucky.

http://www.wlwt.com/politics/26390128/detail.html