CHEYENNE - The House passed a bill Monday that would prohibit illegal immigrants in Wyoming from receiving state services such as welfare, public housing and organ-transplant assistance.

House Bill 145 would require residents to present drivers licenses, passports or Social Security cards to receive most state services.

House Majority Leader Colin Simpson, R-Cody, sponsored the bill. He said he thinks limiting state benefits for illegal immigrants is an issue widely supported in the state.

"I think this is important to put on a Wyoming stage," Simpson said.

However, Rep. Ken Esquibel, D-Cheyenne, said the bill would overstep the state's jurisdiction and repeat what the federal government is already addressing.

"This is a hollow bill," Esquibel said. "It just creates a stigma that the state doesn't want."

Esquibel said the bill would result in segregation in Wyoming and drive away a much-needed work force.

Under the bill, illegal immigrants would still have access to emergency medical services, short-term shelter, crisis counseling and immunizations.

The bill now heads to the Senate for consideration.

The House rejected the introduction of another bill this session that would have made it a felony to harbor and transport illegal immigrants.