HB1909
To Create The Public Services Only For Citizens Act; And To Require Verification Of Citizenship And Residency In Order To Receive Public Assistance.
Last Action (May 5, 2025): Died in House Committee at Sine Die adjournment.
Sponsors
AI-Generated Summary
House Bill 1909, known as the 'Public Services Only for Citizens Act,' mandates that Arkansas state agencies and political subdivisions verify the U.S. citizenship and state residency of applicants for public benefits. It requires applicants 18 or older to attest to their citizenship status under penalty of perjury and provide specific documentation for verification. Agencies are directed to verify residency through documents such as utility bills, bank statements, or state-issued identification. While benefits may be processed pending verification, the bill requires the termination of benefits if an applicant is determined not to be a U.S. citizen. Additionally, it classifies unauthorized receipt of benefits as a debt to the state and subjects ineligible individuals to prosecution for theft. Finally, agencies must report annually on the outcomes of these verification processes to the Governor and the Legislative Council.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
The primary beneficiaries include the State of Arkansas and its taxpayers, as the bill aims to ensure that public resources are reserved for U.S. citizens and to recover funds determined to have been distributed to ineligible non-citizens. State administrative agencies may also benefit from clearer legislative guidance and standardized protocols regarding eligibility verification.
Who Might Suffer?
The bill would most directly and negatively impact non-citizen residents of Arkansas, including legal permanent residents, visa holders, or other individuals who may be ineligible for specific benefits under this act. Furthermore, individuals experiencing poverty or homelessness may face increased administrative burdens or barriers to accessing essential services due to the requirement for specific forms of documentation, such as utility bills or state-issued IDs, which can be difficult to obtain.
Get Notified
Receive an email when this bill's status changes.