The special panel is to make recommendations on whether to toughen laws affecting immigrants’ eligibility for public benefits and education.

Members will also look at immigrants’ involvement in state contracts and what proof of citizenship or lawful presence should be required to get a Missouri driver’s license.

The panel’s first hearing was scheduled Thursday in St. Louis. Subsequent meetings are scheduled for Nov. 30 in Kansas City and Dec. 13 in Jefferson City. The panel is to issue a report by Jan. 31.