WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama says U.S. businesses are looking for quick passage of immigration reform as he pushes Congress to act by the end of the year.

Obama met with CEOs at the White House Tuesday to pressure the Republican-controlled House to pass legislation overhauling the nation's immigration system.

Obama said some "unlikely bedfellows" are supporting immigration reform from the liberal and conservative side. The U.S. Chamber is sending 50 small business owners to meet with lawmakers Tuesday, while the AFL-CIO planned Wednesday to announce new political actions to push for passage.

The Senate has already passed Obama-backed legislation that would secure borders and provide a road to citizenship for 11 million immigrants who entered the country illegally.

Republican leaders have said they prefer a piecemeal approach to the legislation.