Bills would target illegal immigrants

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) - Houston Rep. Debbie Riddle has filed legislation that would criminalize illegal immigrants and those who
employ them.

The Republican's first bill would allow police to arrest those suspected of being in the country illegally on the charge of criminal trespass. Another would make it a felony to knowingly hire a worker who does not have permission to work in this country. Her last measure would require state agencies to report how much state
money is spent on illegal immigrants.

Riddle has made such legislation her signature issue. Gov. Rick Perry has not put illegal immigration on the agenda for the current special session, but that could change.

Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst, who presides over the Senate, has asked Perry to allow lawmakers to take up immigrant-related legislation.