The state Senate passed a bill yesterday that seeks to make Missouri less attractive for people living and working in America without the correct paperwork.

Gov. Matt Blunt praised the passage of Senate Bill 858.

“Illegal immigration is a serious problem in our country and state,” said Blunt in a written statement. “It is not only an assault on the sanctity of our laws but a potential threat to the safety and security of Missouri families.”

St. Louis Senator Harry Kennedy disagrees.

“I’m worried that this bill amounts to an unfunded mandate on our city and county governments, especially our courts and prison systems,” Kennedy said.

“The mandatory jailing of people whose identities cannot be immediately established will lead to overcrowding in our city and county jails and could lead to the release of offenders who have done much worse than overstayed their visa.”

SB 858, sponsored by Sen. Scott Rupp (R-Wentzville), prohibits the creation of so-called “sanctuary cities” in the state; requires verification of legal employment status of every public employee; allows for cancellation of state contracts for contractors if they hire illegal immigrants; requires public agencies to verify the legal status of applicants before providing welfare benefits; further criminalizes the transportation of illegal immigrants for purposes of human trafficking, drug trafficking, prostitution or illegal labor; and prohibits illegal immigrants from obtaining driver licenses.

The bill also prohibits employers from knowingly hiring illegal immigrants.

“I am very opposed to illegal immigration, but with the current economic downturn, I’m worried about imposing another unfunded mandate on our businesses and local governments,” Sen. Kennedy said.