http://www.tennessean.com/apps/pbcs.dll ... /1006/NEWS

Sunday, 03/19/06

Of a dozen-plus immigration bills filed, Joelton lawmaker has three

By GARY TANNER
Associated Press


State Rep. Beth Harwell said the federal government hasn't done enough to control illegal immigration, so state lawmakers are deciding to act.

More than a dozen immigration bills have been introduced in the Tennessee General Assembly this session, and some lawmakers say their constituents consider it a top issue.

"People just believe that our federal immigration laws are unrealistic," said Harwell, a Nashville Republican who chairs a GOP task force on immigration issues.

"They know we should admit more low-skill workers. No one doubts that there's a job market for them," she said. "But they should not be here illegally."

The U.S. House passed a bill in December that makes it a felony for illegal immigrants to be in the United States and, imposes new penalties on employers who hire them, but the Senate is still debating the issue.

In Tennessee, some proposals also would punish businesses that employ illegal workers, and others would make it harder for illegal immigrants to get driver's certificates and public services.