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TULSA – Two months after passage of a bill intended to crack down on the estimated 75,000 illegal immigrants in the state, it still is unknown what effect the legislation will have on the state, Gov. Brad Henry said Wednesday.

State agencies are reviewing the legislation — House Bill 1804 — which takes effect Nov. 1, the governor told nearly 600 who attended a Tulsa Metro Chamber luncheon.

"It's important that we be firm, but we be fair ... to everyone,” Henry said. "We're monitoring it. I've asked Susan Savage, the secretary of state, to meet with various groups that have concerns and monitor the application of this law and make recommendations to me as it becomes apparent that adjustments need to be made.”

The measure sets criminal penalties for knowingly and willingly harboring illegal immigrants. No public benefits would be allowed to people in the state illegally, except in cases of medical emergencies or emergency aid.

Businesses would need to run all workers through a federal verification system or risk penalties and legal action.

Asked whether the state's new immigration law, billed by backers as the toughest in the country, would tarnish the state's image, the governor said he hasn't heard any "major complaints” from businesses.

"I don't really think it will have a dramatic impact on business recruitment and economic development — either way, either negative or positive,” Henry said.

The governor reiterated Wednesday that immigration is a federal issue that Congress should address.

"Until the federal government acts, it's just going to be extremely difficult to get a complete handle on the immigration issue,” Henry said.