LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A bipartisan effort to allow Nebraska driver’s licenses for deferred-action youths won’t pass without a fight.

Opponents mounted a filibuster Wednesday against a bill that would authorize licenses for immigrants who were brought to the United States illegally as children, but allowed to stay under an Obama administration directive.

Most lawmakers support the proposal, as do prominent ranching and business groups and conservatives such as Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert. Sen. Jeremy Nordquist of Omaha, the lead sponsor, says the legislation would help those youth contribute to the economy.

A handful of senators argued that their constituents oppose the measure, and called it unfair to those who immigrated legally.

Nebraska is the only state that still denies licenses to deferred-action youths. A vote is expected Thursday.