Mo. Senate approves added restrictions on illegal immigrants

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) -- The Senate approves a measure placing new restrictions on illegal immigrants.

Illegal immigration has been a hot-button issue, but Senate debate was relaxed with much of the discussion explaining what the wide-ranging bill does rather than debating its merits.

Senators passed the bill 26-7. It now goes to the House.

The bill combines many proposals. Police would need to check immigration status after arrests; illegal immigrants couldn't get public benefits, such as aid for food, housing or retirement; and cities that don't cooperate with immigration authorities could lose state money.

St. Louis Democratic Sen. Jeff Smith was one of seven to vote against it. He says immigrants can help the state economy and the legislation tells them they're unwelcome.