Oklahoma Senate Approves Anti-Immigration Bill

A sweeping anti-illegal immigration bill that allows police to arrest people they suspect are in the country illegally and seize property used to commit immigration-related crimes has passed the Oklahoma Senate.

The Senate voted 29-15 on Wednesday for the bill over the objections of some members who say the plan is unconstitutional and would be detrimental to Oklahoma’s economy.

The bill authorizes law enforcement officers to arrest someone without a warrant if the officer has "probable cause" to believe the person is in the country illegally. It also allows police to seize property, like homes or vehicles, used to knowingly harbor or transport illegal immigrants.

Some members voiced concerns that farmers could risk losing their property and expensive equipment by hiring migrant workers.