Immigration bill goes before Ala. House

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WALA) - Alabama House members will meet Tuesday for the 10th legislative day. Ten bills are listed on the Proposed Special Order Calendar, at the top House Bill 56. This legislation, if it passes the House and Senate, will crack down on illegal immigrants in Alabama.

HB 56 is legislation which is sponsored by Republican Representative Micky Hammon of District 4.

Currently, immigration laws are enforced by the federal government. The purpose of HB 56 would require the verification of the legal status of persons by law enforcement officers under certain circumstances. It would also deter employers from hiring unauthorized aliens.

It is identical legislation to the Arizona Bill according to Representative Hammon's Montgomery office. Arizona Republican Governor Jan Brewer signed her state's bill into law April 2010 after much outrage.

In Alabama, HB 56 will make it a Class C felony if an illegal immigrant registers or votes using false documentation. This would also extend to individuals who assist unauthorized aliens in obtaining false voter registration.

It will also require proof of citizenship or legal residency in order for persons to access government benefits.

HB 56 has enough support from the House to pass Tuesday's vote. If it does make it pass the House, it will head to the Senate.