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Local Employers Who Hire Illegal Immigrants Could Face Jail Time

BOSTON (CBS) - Employers who hire illegal immigrants could face jail time, under the terms of a bill that's being reviewed by a legislative committee.

The bill, filed by state Rep. Ryan Fattman of Sutton gives violators two chances before they're hit with mandatory jail time.

"The first and second strike not as severe. The third time and it's three strikes and you're out. That third strike basically is a mandatory minimum of six months in prison for the employer," said Rep. Fattman.

WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Kim Tunnicliffe reports.

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Rep. Fattman said employers that hire illegal immigrants need to be held accountable.

"It's a magnet that attracts illegal immigration, and Americans and legal immigrants who come here the right way should be the first persons that are offered those jobs," said Rep. Fattman.

The legislature's judiciary committee recently held a hearing on Rep. Fattman's bill. He said he's not sure when the committee will vote on the measure.

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