Reacting to a lack of federal action, dozens of states have stepped in to formulate local immigration laws, a new study says.

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The National Conference of State Legislatures said that at least 1,404 pieces of legislation related to immigrants and immigration have been introduced among the 50 state legislatures since July 2, 2007.

NCSL described the "unprecedented level of activity" as an effort to create local laws to tackle local problems.

Of the 1,040 pieces of legislation, four have been vetoed by state governors and another 12 bills await gubernatorial approval, the organization said.

Many states have focused on employment, health, identification and driver’s and other licenses, law enforcement, public benefits, and human trafficking.

• Arizona passed a law prohibiting employers from hiring undocumented workers. Violators could face suspension or revocation of their business licenses.
• Illinois legislature passed legislation pending gubernatorial approval that would prohibit employers from enrolling in a federal employment eligibility verification system until the system meets certain accuracy criteria.
• Arkansas, in an adopted resolution, requests the federal government to develop a guest worker taxation system to provide basic health care services to guest workers.
• Oregon passed a law making it illegal to perform any immigration consultation without active status in the Oregon Bar.
• Texas tackled the issue of human trafficking.

Laws relating to drivers' licenses and identification cards made up the majority of laws introduced and enacted: 45 states introduced 229 such bills; 26 states enacted them.

Employment-related was the second most active lawmaking area. Forty-four states instroduced 234 employment-related laws such laws. Nineteen states enacted 26 such laws.

NCSL provides research and technical assistance for state-level policymakers and advocates for the interests of state governments before Congress and federal agencies.