Bill > HB307

This bill requires state agencies and political subdivisions in Louisiana to verify the citizenship or immigration status of applicants for public benefits, with several key provisions. Applicants must prove they are either U.S. citizens by birthright or naturalization, or have "satisfactory immigration status" as defined by federal law. If an applicant cannot verify their citizenship or is found to have entered the country without inspection or remained past their authorized stay, the agency must: (1) refer the applicant's information to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), (2) provide a monthly report to the Secretary of State for voter list maintenance, and (3) terminate their public benefits. Public benefits are broadly defined to include welfare, health services, housing assistance, food assistance, unemployment benefits, and other similar support programs. The bill also mandates that agencies submit an annual report to legislative leaders detailing the number of individuals reported to ICE and the number of individuals who had public assistance terminated. For public employees, citizenship verification at the time of enrollment in a pension or retirement system will satisfy the citizenship verification requirement. The overall intent of the bill appears to be increasing immigration status checks and reducing public benefits for undocumented individuals.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://www.legis.la.gov/legis/BillInfo.aspx?s=25rs&b=HB307&sbi=y