Topeka ? An influential Kansas House member’s proposal on illegal immigration is already drawing criticism because it contains a provision similar to the law enacted last year in Arizona.

Critics of Olathe Republican Lance Kinzer’s measure said Thursday that it is likely to lead to racial profiling, which he disputes.

Like the Arizona law, his measure directs law enforcement officers to stop someone to check that person’s status if they have a reasonable suspicion the person is in the country illegally.

Democratic Reps. Ann Mah and Sean Gatewood, of Topeka, said the state should concentrate on preventing the hiring of illegal immigrants.

Kinzer’s bill does require state agencies and contractors to try to verify the legal status of workers. But he acknowledged its Arizona-style provision will get the most attention.