(AP) - Some Merced County farmers say a bill that would allow undocumented farmworkers to access work permits could be a solution to labor shortages.

The Merced Sun Star reports that Merced-area farmers find the proposal makes sense for their business.

The bill being considered by California lawmakers would establish a program for farmworkers who already reside in the state without authorization - instead of granting a temporary work visa to foreign laborers under current programs.