Senate OKs fine for hiring illegal immigrants

WASHINGTON (AP) -- The Senate voted Tuesday to fine employers who hire illegal immigrants up to $20,000 for each unauthorized worker, providing teeth to a broad immigration bill before sending it to a final vote later this week.
Employers would have to check Social Security numbers and the immigration status of all new hires within 18 months after money is provided to the Homeland Security Department to expand the electronic system for screening workers.
The amendment passed 58-40. Opponents said the verification system would take years to implement.