The issue of illegal immigration continues to be listed as a priority on many public opinion polls. Terrill said it costs the state about $200 million in direct costs each year and untold indirect costs.

"We have thousands of illegal immigrants that are coming across our borders daily and in some instances tunneling under it. It is a huge and growing problem," he said.

Terrill said if he were in Mexico with his wife and kids he might also try to come here illegally. The exodus keeps Mexico from solving its own economic and political problems.

He said the failure of the federal government to secure the borders makes it as much of a state issue as a national one. In response to a question, he said Oklahomans couldn't afford to provide services to illegal residents.

"We're not that wealthy and we sure can't afford to be the welfare capital of the world," he said.

Terrill said the legislation is nationality-neutral and was supported overwhelmingly by the Oklahoma House and Senate.

"I don't have any problem with immigrants. I have a problem with illegal immigrants," he said. "It's not about Republicans and Democrats. It's about right and wrong."

Asked about the humanitarian aspect of the legislation, Terrill said there are safeguards built into the bill.

"We're not going to kick them to the curb. We're going to help them up and hopefully expedite their return to their native country," he said.