"While they debate amnesty bills in Washington, a half million illegal aliens enter our country every year," said Rep. Bob Onder.

A bill is aiming to lower this number but is meeting some opposition in Missouri. The bill, which is currently stalled in the senate, would reform illegal immigration laws. If passed, it would require verification of citizenship for people applying for food stamps as well as housing and other public benefits. It would also penalize businesses that knowingly hire illegal immigrants and require Missouri State Highway Patrol Troopers to seek special federal immigration training.

The bill is stalled because of concerns about funding among other reasons. 

"The immigration training is paid for by the federal government. The state of Missouri might have to pay for some incidentals like housing and room and board during the immigration training." 

Bill supporters are revising the bill at the state capitol in hopes that it will be done when legislative session ends on Friday. Supporters of the bill said it's important because if they don't crack down on illegal immigration, no one will. 

"I think it's very clear that federal immigration policy is broken, and the federal government isn't enforcing our laws." 

Governor Blunt said he will call a special session if the legislature fails to pass illegal immigration reform.