The bill, still being drafted, would create a class A misdemeanor for harboring or transporting undocumented immigrants; would create barriers against hiring or providing public benefits to the undocumented; and would allow local law officers to play an enforcement role. It also would repeal a law allowing in-state tuition for qualified undocumented immigrants and repeal their driving privilege cards.

Other lawmakers are working on legislation that touches independently on particular aspects of the illegal immigration issue.

"We'll just have to let the debate unfold," Bramble said. "Many proposals are going to have challenges based on federal pre-emption and constitutionality."

The Washington County Republican Party's Central Committee has passed a resolution supporting Hickman in his effort. It was to be sent to Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr., as well as the speaker of the House and Senate president. The Washington County Republican Women have passed a similar resolution.

The county resolution points to a lack of federal action to secure borders and enforce employment laws, along with "significant financial burdens," as reasons for the support.

"We are absolutely out of patience," Hickman said. "We have been trying to be patient and wait for Congress to act on this issue."

---

E-mail: dbulkeley@desnews.com