Corbett To Sign Bill Requiring Public Works Contractors To Check Worker's Residency

By Tony Romeo

HARRISBURG, Pa. (CBS) - A bill that would require that public works contractors verify the residency status of their employees is on its way to Governor Corbett's desk.

During House debate, Philadelphia Democrat Michael O'Brien said he didn't like what he was hearing.

"I believe the underlying rhetoric that we've heard continues a sad chapter in Americana."

But fellow Democrat John Galloway of Bucks County defended the legislation.

"This bill does not target illegal workers. It targets the contractors that use and abuse them for profit."

Public works contractors will be required to use the federal online "E-Verify" system to make sure their workers are in the Unites States legally.

Another bill that would require adults to verify legal residency before getting public benefits passed both the House and Senate but in different versions and will not be going to the governor yet.