The Census Bureau reports that since 1990, the Hispanic population has grown by nearly 104-percent in Sedgwick, Butler and Harvey counties. It's not surprising the Kansas gubernatorial candidates are courting Hispanics for their support in November.

As republican Tim Shallenburger found out on Thursday, the Hispanic community is facing many important and unique issues. He addressed those issues at a meeting hosted by the Sunflower Community Action Group.

One hot topic was the driver's license issue. Right now, illegal immigrants are forbidden to get a driver's license in Kansas. They say they do not agree with the current proposal to issue licenses designed to identify illegals. Shallenburger say he thinks it is essential that people who live in Kansas be legal taxpayers. He says an illegal immigrant should be issued a driver's license, as long as they are working on citizenship.

At the meeting Shallenburger signed a document stating that if elected, he would work on the issues facing the Hispanic community.

On Friday, the Hispanic leaders will meet with democrat Kathleen Sebelius to rally her on these same issues and concerns.

The Sunflower Community Action Group does not endorse candidates.