Bill > SB1338

This bill amends existing Arizona law to clarify eligibility for state and local public benefits, requiring individuals applying for these benefits to provide documentation proving their lawful presence in the United States, such as a driver's license, birth certificate, or passport. It also allows for alternative documentation for certain groups like tribal members, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities, as permitted by federal law, and mandates that applicants sign a sworn affidavit attesting to the truthfulness of their submitted documents. The bill further establishes penalties for employees and supervisors who fail to report discovered violations of federal immigration law, categorizing such offenses as a class 2 misdemeanor, and grants any Arizona resident the right to sue state or local agencies for violations of these provisions, with courts prioritizing these cases and potentially awarding court costs and attorney fees to prevailing parties. Importantly, the definition of "state or local public benefit" is clarified to exclude commercial or professional licenses, postsecondary education, and benefits from public retirement systems and plans, among other services generally available to the public.

Government Affairs

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/84878