Governor, Attorney General, Sen. Friend Outline Proposal
to Address Illegal Immigration in Nebraska

(Lincoln, NE) Gov. Dave Heineman today announced a targeted legislative proposal that would prohibit illegal immigrants from receiving state benefits. The legislation would require state agencies and local subdivisions to verify that any resident applying for state benefits is here legally. The bill is a cooperative effort with Attorney General Jon Bruning and Sen. Mike Friend of Omaha, sponsor of the bill.

“Illegal immigrants should not receive state benefits,” Gov. Heineman said. “As I travel the state, I am frequently asked about what Nebraska is going to do about illegal immigration, especially as other states have responded to the challenge. This is a measured and targeted proposal that is limited to the area over which state and local governments have control. It would help ensure that the benefits available to U.S. citizens are preserved for those who truly qualify for assistance.”

All state and local agencies would be required to verify with the federal government an applicant’s legal status as part of the benefit enrollment process. If the applicant is determined to be in the country illegally, the application for benefits would be denied. The proposal would enact into state law the same benefit definitions that exist in federal law.

State law would specifically prohibit an illegal immigrant from obtaining state or local retirement, welfare, health, disability, public housing, postsecondary education, food assistance, or unemployment benefits. It would also apply to any federal benefits states are authorized to limit under existing law. However, the proposal would not impact benefits such as emergency medical assistance and short-term emergency disaster relief, which are mandated to be provided by the federal government.

Attorney General Bruning said, “Providing benefits to those who don’t follow the law sends the wrong message. This bill is another tool that will help the state fight illegal immigration.”

Sen. Friend said, “I think this is reasonable legislation and I think it provides some clarification about benefits that the state of Nebraska can lawfully provide. Obviously, this is an issue that has confused and polarized our nation and our state. We should always move cautiously when we are addressing issues like this. I believe that with this measure, we are addressing this issue thoughtfully and carefully.”

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