Creates the Louisiana Taxpayer and Citizen Protection Act of 2011 (OR INCREASE GF EX See Note)
This legislation significantly impacts state laws by enforcing strict measures on public agencies and local governments concerning immigration enforcement. Agencies will be required to verify the citizenship status of individuals ages 14 and older applying for public benefits. Furthermore, it imposes penalties on individuals who assist or harbor illegal aliens, thus criminalizing what was previously non-punishable behavior under state law. The act also curtails the ability of local governments to enact ordinances limiting cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
House Bill 59, also known as the Louisiana Taxpayer and Citizen Protection Act of 2011, focuses on verification of citizenship status for residents in relation to public benefits, employment, and law enforcement. It mandates the use of the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) program to verify that individuals who apply for state or local public benefits are legally present in the United States. The bill extends to various sectors, including education, where it restricts illegal aliens from receiving resident tuition benefits and other financial aids for postsecondary education.
The sentiment surrounding HB 59 is deeply polarized. Proponents argue that the bill is necessary to address the issues of illegal immigration and the economic burdens it imposes on public resources. They view it as a means to protect taxpayer interests and ensure that public benefits are reserved for U.S. citizens and legally residing individuals. Conversely, opponents criticize the legislation as overly punitive and detrimental to the rights of non-citizens, arguing that it fosters discrimination and may deny essential services to vulnerable populations, particularly in emergencies.
Notable points of contention include the implications for local governance, as the bill explicitly prohibits local agencies from limiting their cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. Critics express concern that this undermines local autonomy and could lead to community divisions. Additionally, the requirement for notarized affidavits from applicants asserting their citizenship status has raised questions about potential fraud and enforcement challenges, particularly in regions with substantial immigrant populations. Overall, the bill represents a contentious balancing act between enforcing immigration laws and protecting civil rights.