PROVIDENCE — Proposed legislation to curb illegal immigration has stirred opposition by immigrant advocacy groups, who argue that such legislation “will increase anti-immigrant fervor and division in Rhode Island.”

State Rep. Peter G. Palumbo, D-Cranston, and Sen. Christopher B. Maselli, D-Johnston, announced their plans to file “The Rhode Island Taxpayer and Citizens Protection Act,” at a State House news conference on Monday.

The legislation, a revamped version of a bill that died during the last General Assembly, aims to tighten state laws regarding issuance of driver’s licenses and to make it unlawful for businesses or individuals to harbor undocumented immigrant workers. Both legislators said the issue is about economics and protecting jobs.

Ramon Martinez, president of Progreso Latino, was among a number of advocates who issued an opposition statement.

“Rhode Island has a long history of welcoming immigrants and promoting community and justice. Unfortunately, this bill, and bills of this nature, only divide Rhode Island and promote fear and hatred in our communities,” said Martinez. Progreso Latino was one of a number of advocacy groups issuing an opposition statement after Palumbo and Maselli’s news conference.

Other groups include The Rhode Island Coalition of Immigrants and Refugees, the International Institute of Rhode Island and the Poverty Institute at Rhode Island College.

William Shuey, executive director of the International Institute, said similar legislation enacted in other parts of the country “has done nothing to address the underlying issues that need to be addressed by federal legislation, but rather has caused racial profiling, targeting anyone who speaks with an accent or looks foreign, and prevents individuals from finding employment or housing.”

Shuey added, “Solving the issues around immigration is a uniquely federal responsibility. The General Assembly has enough on its plate to get our fiscal house in order and unite all Rhode Islanders in a plan to balance the budget while maintaining critical services. We expect they will reject these bills that just divide our community and are likely illegal.”

Ivette Luna, co-chairwoman of the Rhode Island Coalition of Immigrants and Refugees, said that in keeping with Rhode Island’s tradition “as a welcoming haven for immigrants and newcomers, we urge members of the state legislature to refrain from introducing or supporting legislation that will only fuel the rise of intolerance towards immigrant communities.”

kziner@projo.com