Bill hikes penalty for fake IDs

The Clarion-Ledger, 2/9/9

With Mississippi being the site of the nation’s largest workplace raid on undocumented workers, lawmakers are trying to crack down on illegal immigrants who obtain false identification for employment.

A bill passed in the Senate and now headed to the House would enhance the penalties for illegal immigrants who create or use false ID.

Currently, a person convicted of those crimes could face up to three years in prison or a $5,000 fine. Under the bill, an illegal immigrant would face up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

The bill also would make it a state crime to transport or shelter an illegal immigrant. Churches, charities and other nonprofit agencies would be exempt from the law.