LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A bill that would allow young immigrants who were brought into the country illegally to receive professional licenses has advanced to a final vote in the Nebraska Legislature.

Senators gave the measure second-round approval on Thursday, despite the looming threat of a veto by Gov. Pete Ricketts.

The bill by Sen. Heath Mello of Omaha would apply to youths who were allowed to stay in the United States through the federal deferred-action program. Supporters say it would allow them to serve as teachers, nurses, counselors, accountants and other professions that require a license.

Conservative opponents argue that the bill would reward lawbreaking by immigrant parents who brought their children into the country illegally.