WASHINGTON (AP) -- Illegal immigrants without Social Security numbers could not get tax credits under the economic stimulus plan making its way through Congress.

A senior GOP congressional official had expressed concern that the bill could steer government checks to undocumented workers.

But, in fact, the measure prevents anyone without a Social Security number from claiming tax credits of $500 per worker and $1,000 per couple.

It also expressly disqualifies nonresident aliens.

Senate Majority leader Harry Reid says Republicans need to "get off this illegal immigrant stuff." He says the bill has nothing to do with anything illegal -- and that it creates jobs for people in this country lawfully.

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