Topeka ? Hispanics came from across the state Friday to meet with elected officials during “Hispanic Day on the Hill” and landed in the center of a political controversy.

The Kansas House narrowly approved a bill, 66-57, that had been sought by Hispanic advocates and would allow undocumented immigrant workers to obtain a Kansas driver’s license.

State Rep. Carl Krehbiel, R-Moundridge, voted against the measure, saying the bill opened up a loophole that would make it easy for al-Qaida terrorists to obtain photo identification and commit violence.

“Calling all terrorists — the Kansas House of Representatives is putting out the welcome mat,” Krehbiel said from the well of the House.

Elias Garcia, chairman of the Kansas Democratic Hispanic Caucus, denounced Krehbiel’s remarks. “This shows you where they are at,” Garcia said.

Garcia said he hoped Hispanics would remember Krehbiel’s remarks when the legislator faces re-election.

Bill supporters said it would help undocumented workers get a driver’s license, which is needed to obtain legally required liability insurance. Under the bill, an undocumented immigrant could obtain a Kansas driver’s license after providing proof of residency in Kansas.

The measure now goes to the Senate for consideration.

Earlier in the day, Gov. Kathleen Sebelius spoke to the more than 150 people who showed up for the Hispanic event.

She urged Hispanics to apply for positions on state boards and commissions.

“If you would like to be involved, we need your help and energy,” she said.

Sebelius also said she wanted to move the Kansas Advisory Committee on Hispanic Affairs from the Kansas Department of Human Resources to the Governor’s Office. She said the advisory panel would be more effective working from the Governor’s Office.