Connecticut House Bill HB05652

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/21/15
• Refer: 1/21/15

Caption

An Act Concerning Personal Bank Accounts For Undocumented Immigrants.

Impact

The potential impact of HB 05652 on state laws could be significant as it would address barriers that undocumented immigrants face in accessing financial resources. This change may encourage greater participation in the economy by providing a secure means of handling money, thus promoting savings and financial literacy among affected populations. It is expected to contribute to a more inclusive financial system whereby undocumented immigrants can build credit histories, enabling greater access to loans and other financial products in the future.

Summary

House Bill 05652, titled 'An Act Concerning Personal Bank Accounts For Undocumented Immigrants,' aims to amend Title 36a of the general statutes to provide undocumented immigrants the right to open personal bank accounts. The intent behind this bill is to enhance financial inclusion by enabling individuals who lack formal immigration status to access banking services, which can lead to a more stable and secure financial environment for those affected. By allowing undocumented immigrants to open bank accounts, the bill seeks to integrate these individuals into the formal financial system, potentially reducing the reliance on cash transactions and increasing safety.

Contention

Despite the benefits outlined, the bill may face opposition rooted in concerns over illegal immigration and its implications for state-funded resources. Critics might argue that allowing undocumented immigrants access to bank accounts could incentivize further immigration and may raise questions about identity verification and fraud prevention. Proponents of the bill, however, may counter that it promotes public safety by bringing individuals into the banking system, where their finances can be monitored, and reducing the risks associated with operating outside of it.