Jefferson City, MO. (AP) – Missouri senators have given an initial approval on a bill that would crack down on some immigrants living in the United States illegally.

The senators voted 26-3 in favor of the bill Tuesday, however another vote of approval is needed for the bill to continue its course and move to the House.

If the bill passes through Legislature and becomes law, the immigrants who have been deported, come back, and commit assaults and dangerous felony offenses could face three to 10 years prison time.

Republican Sen. Mike Cunningham says his goal is to crack down on criminals. He says workers who overstay and people who come to visit family are not the intended targets.

Democratic Sen. Jill Schupp raised concern that what she described as “anti-immigrant” policies could potentially spur fear and deter immigrants from coming to Missouri and contributing to the economy.