Immigrant Policy Project

2007 Enacted State Legislation Related to Immigrants and Immigration

August 5, 2007*

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Overview

As of July 2, 2007, no fewer than 1404 pieces of legislation related to immigrants and immigration had been introduced among the 50 state legislatures. Of these bills, 182 bills became law in 43 states. Four bills have been vetoed by the Governor.

State legislators have introduced roughly two and a half times more bills in 2007 than in 2006. The number of enactments from 2006 (84) has more than doubled to 170 in 2007. Several states are still in session so there could be additional legislation related to immigrants later this year.

In the continued absence of a comprehensive federal reform of the United States’ challenged immigration system, states have displayed an unprecedented level of activity – and have developed a variety of their own approaches and solutions.

Immigration-related legislation covers almost every policy arena relevant in state legislatures.

Many states have focused on employment, health, identification and driver’s and other licenses, law enforcement, public benefits, and human trafficking.

In the employment arena, states have introduced and enacted a variety of legislation focusing on employment eligibility verification requirements on both the employer and the employee level. Several enactments also focus on employment eligibility verification with respect to unemployment benefits and workers compensation.

States also remain very committed to combating human trafficking. A variety of state laws stiffen penalties, set up commissions to study and monitor the subject and also provide services for victims.

Several states enacted proposals in the field of public benefits, requiring proof of lawful residence in the United States for the receipt of public benefits. A number of states also enacted programs aiming to facilitate and promote the integration of immigrants into society.

Another area with significant state activity is that of identification and documentation requirements. Several states have implemented laws that put in place identity verification mechanisms, including lawful status determinations, before driver’s and business licenses are issued to applicants.

This report gives a quantitative overview of introduced legislation and briefly analyzes enacted laws relating to immigrants and refugees. This process of legislative tracking and reporting is based on a comprehensive and inclusive methodology and captures all state legislation in which immigrants – whether authorized or unauthorized, migrants, aliens and refugees – are affected. In 2007, states addressed both enforcement and integration issues related to immigrants.

*Revised August 31, 2007 to include final status of 12 bills pending a Governor’s signature as of August 5.

Main Topics in State Immigration-Related Legislation

Main Topics

Number of Bills Introduced

States

Enacted Laws

States

Education

119

31

11

9

Employment**

234

44

28

20

Health

134

31

12

9

Human Trafficking

79

29

16

12

ID/Driver’s Licenses/Other Licenses

227

45

38

29

Law Enforcement

148

34

12

8

Legal Services

20

10

3

3

Miscellaneous

103

29

6

5

Omnibus/Comprehensive Measures

27

8

1

1

Public Benefits**

115

39

17

13

Voting

46

20

0

0

Resolutions

152

34

38

14

TOTAL

1404

50

182

43

**Since the April 18^th 2007 report, 34 pieces of legislation concerned with workers compensation and unemployment insurance have been moved from the public benefit section to the employment section.

States Enacting Immigration Related Legislation in 2007

State Map

Education (11)

Eleven laws were passed in 9 states: Arizona, Connecticut, Indiana, Nevada, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Utah, Virginia and Washington. Two bills were vetoed in two states: Minnesota and New Mexico.

Arizona HB 2202 (Signed 5/8/2007)

This law establishes a division of adult education within the department of education. In relation to immigrants the department must: adopt rules for the establishment and conduct of classes for immigrant and adult education, including the teaching of English to foreigners and the department is to stimulate and correlate the Americanization work of various agencies.

Connecticut SB 1287 (Signed 5/19/2007)

The act allows for the state of Connecticut to issue a Visiting International Teacher Permit to individuals that meet several criteria: possession of a J-1 visa; presence in the country as a result of a memorandum of understanding between the state and their country or as part of the Exchange Visitor Program; has the equivalent of a bachelors degree; has completed a teaching preparation program; and has a sufficient level of performance in spoken English.

Indiana SB 526 (Signed 5/02/2007)

This law defines the term resident and applies requirements to the state’s higher education system. It allows into the resident category “a foreign student visiting in Indiana under any student exchange program approved by the state board” and makes them eligible for certain state aid.

Nevada SB 5 (Signed 6/14/07)

This act revises provisions governing eligibility for the receipt of a millennium scholarship. This legislation requires that applicants be legal residents of the state for at least 2 years.

North Dakota SB 2200 (Signed 5/03/07)

The law defines a “new immigrant English language learner” as an English language learner who was not born in the United States and has not attended school in the United States for more than three school years or the monthly equivalent of three school years and requires reporting on their numbers in school and provides for extra compensation for schools that serve them.

Oklahoma SB 820 – Chapter 355 (Signed 06/04/07)

The law modifies eligibility requirements and requires United States citizenship or lawful presence for the Oklahoma Higher Learning Access Program (OHLAP).

Utah HB 118 (Signed 3/20/07)

This law amends and clarifies the residency requirement for in-state tuition in Utah making it easier to qualify as a resident for in state tuition as a legal immigrant.

Virginia HB 1996 - Chapter 108 (Signed 3/13/07)

This law states that any alien holding an immigration visa or classified as a political refugee shall also establish eligibility for in-state tuition in the same manner as any other student. However, absent congressional intent to the contrary, any person holding a student or other temporary visa shall not have the capacity to intend to remain in Virginia indefinitely and, therefore, shall be ineligible for Virginia domicile and for in-state tuition charges.

Virginia HB 2048 – Chapter 491 (Signed 3/27/07)

This act relates to in-state tuition for dependents of active duty military personnel. This law does not mention immigrants or alien populations specifically, however, it defines residency requirements for in-state tuition.

Virginia HB 2631 – Chapter 48 (Signed 3/12/2007)

This act relates to limitations on access to student records and defines what will be in a student’s record and who has access including parents, those the student allows, principals, teachers, and bodies given access through judicial process. More specifically, the law states that personal information of students may be released to an employee of the US government if the student is a US veteran, a dependent of such veteran, an orphan, or an alien of any kind.

Washington HB 1128 – Chapter 522 (Signed 5/15/07)

This law includes an appropriation for groups contracted by the state immigration and refugee assistance services department to work with immigrants.

Vetoed (2):

Minnesota SB 1989 (Vetoed 5/09/2007)

This legislation would have provided appropriations for educational programs and to fund new requirements. It would have eliminated non-resident tuition at certain schools through funding.

New Mexico SB 858 (Vetoed 5/9/07)

This legislation would have created a program aimed at first year migrant and seasonal farm worker students at New Mexico state university to help ensure their successful matriculation past the initial year of college and meet educational needs.

Employment (28)

28 laws were enacted in 20 states: Arkansas, Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Minnesota, Mississippi, Montana, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia and West Virginia. One bill in Washington was partially vetoed.

Arkansas HB 1024 - Act 157 (Signed 02/28/2007)

State agencies are prohibited from contracting with businesses that employ illegal immigrants. Contractors must certify that they do not employ or contract with an illegal immigrant.

Arkansas HB 1699 - Act 545 (Signed 03/28/2007)

The minimum wage and overtime law are amended to parallel certain provisions of federal minimum wage and overtime law. Certain migrant farm laborers are excluded from the definition of an “employee”.

Arizona HB 2474 (Signed 04/24/2007)

The act relates to overtime compensation including certain aliens and minors permitted to work for hire.

Arizona HB 2779 (Signed 07/02/2007)

This law prohibits employers from knowingly or intentionally hiring undocumented workers and requires all employers to use the Basic Pilot Program to determine employees’ legal status; forms a committee to study employer sanctions laws in Arizona; and provides penalties with respect to business licenses.

Colorado HB 1073 (Signed 03/16/2007)

The act relates to the use of the Basic Pilot Program in connection with a public contract for services in order to confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees.

Colorado HB 1286 (Signed 04/26/2007)

This law concerns documentation that proves legal United States residence by an individual applying for unemployment insurance benefits pursuant to a reciprocal interstate agreement when the individual is not a Colorado resident.

Georgia SB 184 - Act 147 (Signed 05/18/2007)

This legislation relates to income taxes, provides an additional adjustment to taxable income of corporations with respect to certain disallowances and disallows as a business expense compensation paid by a taxpayer to an unauthorized employee.

Hawaii HB 1379 - Act 070 (Signed 05/16/2007)

The act provides the same type of unemployment insurance (UI) coverage in state law as in federal law; it excludes certain alien agricultural workers.

Hawaii HB 1750 – Act 052 (Signed 05/03/2007)

All persons seeking employment with the government of the State or in the service of any county must be citizens, nationals, or permanent resident aliens of the United States, or eligible under federal law for unrestricted employment in the United States.

Illinois HB 1743 (Signed 8/13/2007)

This law relates to immigrant employment eligibility verification of social security numbers and Homeland Security databases. It provides for the regulation of civil rights violations for an employer participating in the Basic Pilot Program and prohibits discrimination on the basis of citizenship.

Illinois HB 1744 (Signed 8/13/2007)

The act amends the Right to Privacy in the Workplace Act and provides that employers are prohibited from enrolling in any Employment Eligibility Verification System, including the Basic Pilot program, as authorized by federal law, until the Social Security Administration and Department of Homeland Security databases are able to make a determination on 99% of the tentative non-confirmation notices issued to employers within 3 days, unless otherwise required by federal law. It provides that the Department of Human Rights shall establish a statewide advisory council to study the effects of Employment Eligibility Verification Systems, including the Basic Pilot program, on employers and employees in Illinois.

Kansas SB 83 (Signed 03/19/2007)

This law concerns the employment security law, contribution rates, unemployment tax account and excludes certain alien agricultural workers from the definition.

Kansas SB 235 (Signed 04/05/2007)

The act excludes certain alien agricultural workers from the definition of employee in the Employment Security Law.

Kentucky HB 296 - Chapter 93 (Signed 05/23/2007)

The law relates to workers' compensation self-insurance. For the purposes of this act “alien” is defined as a person who is not a citizen, a national, or a resident of the United States or Canada.

Maine SB 1015 (Signed 6/5/07)

The act amends the unemployment laws by creating a requirement of legal status for unemployment benefits from agricultural work.

Minnesota SF 167 – Chapter 128 (Signed 05/ 24/2007)

This law relates to unemployment insurance. Personal data gathered from any person under the administration of the Minnesota Unemployment Insurance Law may be disseminated to the federal Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration. An alien is ineligible for unemployment benefits for any week the alien is not authorized to work in the United States under federal law. Unemployment benefits must not be paid on the basis of wage credits earned by an alien unless the alien (1) was lawfully admitted for permanent residence at the time of the employment, (2) was lawfully present for the purposes of the employment, or (3) was permanently residing in the United States under color of law at the time of the employment. Any information required of applicants applying for unemployment benefits to determine eligibility because of their alien status must be required from all applicants.

Mississippi SB 2448 (Signed 04/25/2007)

This act concerns unemployment compensation law. Benefits shall not be payable on the basis of services performed by an alien, unless such alien is an individual who was lawfully admitted for permanent residence at the time such services were performed, and was lawfully present for purposes of performing such services.

Montana HB 111 - Chapter 52 (Signed 03/27/2007)

This legislation revises unemployment insurance laws. Excluded from the definition of employment are: services performed by an alien as identified in 8 U.S.C. 1101, i.e. an alien having a residence in a foreign country coming temporarily to the United States to perform agricultural labor or services; or an alien, who is a bona fide student and who seeks to enter the United States temporarily and solely for the purpose of pursuing such a course of study.

Montana SB 214 – Chapter 340 (Signed - 04/28/2007)

This law affects independent contractors. It excludes from the definition of employment: services performed by an alien as identified in 8 U.S.C. 1101, i.e. an alien having a residence in a foreign country coming temporarily to the United States to perform agricultural labor or services, or an alien, who is a bona fide student and who seeks to enter the United States temporarily and solely for the purpose of pursuing such a course of study.

New Mexico HB 247 – Chapter 137 (Signed 04/02/2007)

This act relates to unemployment compensation and excludes certain aliens admitted to the United States to perform services in agricultural labor pursuant to the Immigration and Nationality Act.

Nevada AB 496 - Chapter 537 (Signed 06/15/2007)

The act makes various changes concerning workers' compensation. The provisions of the act do not apply in favor of aliens who are nonresidents of the United States at the time of the accident, injury to, or death.

Oregon HB 2244 (Signed 06/01/2007)

This law requires the Department of Consumer and Business Services to develop a plan to eliminate the sunset of provisions related to permanent partial disability awards in workers' compensation claims. If the worker is a person present in the United States in

violation of federal immigration laws, the insurer or self-insured employer shall cease payments.

Tennessee HB 729 (Signed - 06/26/2007)

The act provides for administrative procedures against employers who knowingly hire illegal immigrants, including the temporary suspension of the employer’s business license.

Tennessee SB 903 - Chapter 220 (Signed 5/24/2007)

This legislation prohibits the use in the state of a federal individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN) as a form of identification to prove immigration status. It provides that for purposes of an application or offer of employment, no person in this state shall accept an ITIN as a form of identification and any person, including any contractor, in this state who is presented with an ITIN by a potential employee or subcontractor as a form of identification or to prove immigration status shall reject such number and shall request the lawful resident verification information.

Texas HB 1196 (Signed 06/15/2007)

This law restricts the use of certain public subsidies to employ undocumented workers. It provides that a public agency, state or local taxing jurisdiction, or economic development corporation shall require a business that submits an application to receive a public subsidy to include in the application a statement certifying that the business, or a branch, division, or department of the business, does not and will not knowingly employ an undocumented worker.

Utah SB 103 (Signed 3/13/2007).

The law excludes those without legal status from receiving unemployment compensation.

Virginia HB 2294 (Signed 3/27/07)

The act relates to the Virginia Workers' Compensation Act. It relates to employees of local governments and defines the term “aliens and minors” as being capable of definition as an employee.

West Virginia SB 70 - Chapter 144 (Signed 4/3/07)

This legislation makes is unlawful for any employer to knowingly employ an unauthorized worker. Employers are required to verify a prospective employee's legal status or authorization to work. The law also provides for penalties for employing unauthorized workers, including fines, jail sentences and revocation of business licenses.

Partial Veto:

Washington SB 5774 - Chapter 387 (Signed 5/8/2007 - Partial Veto of Sec. 6 and 7)

Section 6 of the Bill was vetoed by the Governor. This section would have provided for a work group examining the need for and feasibility of verifying citizenship or immigration status of persons for whom background checks are required. The act revises background check requirements for the departments of Social and Health Services and Early Learning.

Health (12)

Twelve laws were enacted in 9 states: Hawaii, Iowa, Indiana, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Texas and Virginia.

Hawaii HB 1008 (Signed 6/30/2007)

The legislation establishes the Hawaii children's health care program and the Hawaii infant care program as temporary three-year pilot programs and requires the expansion and monitoring for three years children’s health care coverage . This program aims to cover the children that are otherwise ineligible for state and federal healthcare support. In the past these ineligible children have included immigrants with temporary visas.

Iowa HF 909 (Signed 5/29/2007)

This law appropriates funds for health and human services activities. If the federal government fails to authorize funds for the SCHIP shortfall occurring in FY October 1, 2006 – September 30, 2007, the department of Health and Human Services may use 100 percent state funds from July 1, 2007 to September 30, 2007. In this situation the department may access medical assistance funds appropriated by this bill for continuation of SCHIP and/or request a supplemental appropriation. Contingent upon the reauthorization of SCHIP and availability of funds under this act, the state may expand coverage to legal immigrant children and all pregnant women deemed ineligible under current federal law.

Indiana SB 0489 (Signed 5/2/2007)

The act establishes a “rural health care pilot program” enabling health care providers to receive grants for program participation. Grant money must be used to make the local match for the construction of regional broadband networks. Migrant health centers are one of many classes of health care providers that are eligible to participate in this pilot program.

Louisiana HB 246 (Signed 07/09/2007)

The law relates to the certification of medical attendants in licensed nursing homes. It establishes medical administration applicant requirements and a registry and declares that these medical attendants are citizens of the United States, U.S. nationals, or aliens lawfully admitted for permanent residency in the United States.

Michigan HB 4207 – Act 19 (Signed 06/14/2007)

The legislation provides for licensure of an applicant applying for initial licensure as a registered professional nurse who is licensed in another state or, until January 1, 2012, is licensed in a province of Canada.

Minnesota HF 1078 (Signed 5/25/2007 with partial line item vetoes)

This omnibus health and human services finance law relates to health and human services activities including child care services, dental health, medical assistance and mental health. It requires that the commissioner of human services shall act as a referral coordinator and provide information to newly arrived immigrants and that child care service grants may be awarded for programs that serve ethnic immigrant and refugee communities. Newly added provisions provide that one grant from the Oral Health Care Innovations fund be reserved for the Bright Smiles Program that increases dental access to low-income and immigrant children and their families in the Minneapolis area. It appropriates $100,000 from lottery revenue for the creation of a gambling treatment, prevention or education program for immigrant communities.

Minnesota SF 26 (Signed 5/24/2007)

The legislation requires that applications for medical licensure must include a social security number, alien registration card, or tax identification number. Licensure requirements of two years graduate study and accreditation are waived for permanent immigrants to the United States admitted before October 1, 1991, and temporary nonimmigrants who have exceptional ability in the sciences according to federal guidelines.

New York SB 2104 (Signed 4/9/2007)

The act appropriates funds for various Health and Human Service activities. It includes an allocation to the Department of Agriculture and markets for the farmers’ market program and migrant worker services. It increases the cost of living for migrant health workers, among other groups, with the commissioner making the final decision regarding requirements and standards necessary for these raises. The law allocates money for a grant pool for community health centers whose principal objectives are to provide primary healthcare and outreach activities for migrant workers and their families. At least 70 percent of these grants will be allocated to centers that receive their funding from the federal Public Health Service Act.

Texas HB 109 (Signed 6/15/2007)

The law amends the Health and Safety code to change financial eligibility standards and verification timeframes, increase the duration of eligibility to 12 months from six, and increase outreach and education campaigns regarding the children’s health insurance program. This law allows the commission to contract with community-based groups to further promote enrollment of children into health insurance programs. All outreach materials generated under this project must be in both English and Spanish.

Texas SB 1107 (Signed 5/22/2007)

The act relates to the Travis County Healthcare district and amends the Occupations Code enabling the board to certify a health organization to employ or contract with physicians if the group is in a hospital district and operates in certain fashions. One of the allowed operational structures is a migrant health center.

Virginia HB 3183 (Signed 3/24/2007)

Funds are to support women facing unplanned pregnancies, and can be used for upgrading ultrasound equipment; creating independent programs for domestic violence; dating violence, sexual assault and stalking; providing support services for women in institutions of higher learning; allocating funding for early childhood education programs for teens to complete high school or receive job training; and providing teen or first time mothers with free home visits from registered nurses. Migrant health centers are among those groups eligible to apply for the Virginia Pregnant Women Support grants.

Virginia SB 1088 (Signed 3/23/2007)

The law creates and allows for donations into the Virginia Pregnant Women Support Fund administered by the Board of Health. The Board of Health will establish application protocol for grants subsidized by this fund. Migrant health centers are among those groups eligible to apply for the Virginia Pregnant Women Support grants.

Human Trafficking (16)

16 laws were enacted in 12 states: Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Kentucky, Maryland, Montana, Nevada, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Texas and Virginia.

Connecticut SB 398 - Chapter 107 (Signed 06/11/2007)

The law creates a state council that monitors the trafficking of persons within the state of Connecticut, within national borders, and across international borders. This legislation defines “trafficking” as abduction, transport, harboring, transfer, sale or receipt of persons through force, coercion, or false pretenses. Additionally, this bill aims to protect these displaced people from slavery or slavery-like situations which include forced labor or services, such as prostitution and sexual services, domestic servitude, sweatshop labor, and other forms of debt bondage.

Delaware HB 116 - Chapter 125 (Signed 07/12/2007)

This act enables the state to apply the federal human trafficking statute on a local level. The law states that knowingly destroying, concealing, removing, confiscating or possessing any passport or other immigration document of another person is a felony. The law also defines human trafficking to include commercial sexual activity, exotic dancing, and menial labor. It provides restitution and protection for victims of human trafficking.

Florida HB 7181 - Chapter 162 (Signed 07/01/2007)

The law addresses immigrant survivors of human trafficking and other human rights violations including domestic violence. It ensures that these trafficked persons are provided with state-funded support services. This law requires that a sworn statement from the victim be sufficient evidence in receiving these services and provides for a public-awareness program.

Kentucky SB 43 - Chapter 19 (Signed 03/19/2007)

The legislation establishes the Division of Child Abuse, Domestic Violence, and Human Trafficking Services within the Cabinet for Health and Family Services.

Maryland SB 606 - Chapter 341 (Signed 05/08/2007)

This law forbids a person from soliciting another human being for sexually explicit performance, prostitution, labor, or services by a specific means. It prohibits the solicitation of a minor, including prostitution and sexual explicit acts. The act further prohibits the destruction, concealment, removal or possession of any immigration identification document with the intent to harm the immigration status of another person.

Montana SB 385 - Chapter 147 (Signed 04/05/2007)

This act forbids involuntary servitude and the trafficking of human beings.

Nevada AB 383 – Chapter 316 (Signed 06/02/2007)

This law creates and defines the crime of human trafficking making it a category B felony with a sentence of 1-20 yrs, pending degree, in state prison and a fine of no more than $50,000 and makes the crime one for which an individual may be charged as a habitual felon. Individuals suffering injury as a result of the act of this crime can recover actual and punitive damages in civil action with the personal property of the convicted felon subject to forfeiture.

Employment Provisions: The law requires the Director of the Department of Business and Industry to include on the Department’s website a link to the Social Security Administration where verification can be performed by employers. The Nevada Tax Commission is also to hold hearings concerning anyone who has been found to be engaged in unlawful hiring or employment of unauthorized aliens and if necessary impose administrative fines.

New York SB 5902 - Chapter 74 (Signed 06/06/2007)

The act provides provisions to New York state law dealing with human trafficking including labor and sex trafficking and provides services for persons affected by human trafficking.

Oregon SB 578 (Signed 7/17/2007)

The act relates to human trafficking in the State of Oregon. It defines some forms of human trafficking as a first degree offense with a maximum penalty of 20 years of prison or a $375,000 fine or both, and creates a task force to help fight human trafficking.

Rhode Island HB 5881 – Act 217 (Signed 07/02/2007)

This law defines the act of human trafficking and involuntary servitude as a criminal offense.

Rhode Island SB 692 - Chapter 123 (Signed 06/27/2007)

The act establishes and defines the trafficking of persons and involuntary servitude as a criminal offense. It relates to intimidation, forced labor, commercial sexual activity, knowingly destroying, concealing, removing, confiscating or possessing without that person's consent any passport or other immigration document. The act addresses child victims and provides for fines and imprisonment.

Texas HB 1121 (Signed 06/15/2007)

The law relates preventative actions of human trafficking victims and other abuses to judicial findings. It enables judges to issue an official verification, or judicial finding, that a victim is truly a victim of a severe form of trafficking, as defined by federal law, encouraging the victim to assist in the prosecution of the perpetrator.

Texas SB 11 (Signed 06/06/2007)

The law promotes cooperation between local government entities and a statewide mutual aid system and includes protections against human trafficking. In regard to immigration and verification of state citizenship, the law provides for an improved driver’s license or personal identification certificate.

Virginia HB 1921 – Chapter 453 (Signed 03/19/2007)

This legislation prohibits the destruction, concealment, removal, confiscation, or possession of any actual or false passport, immigration document, or any form of official government identification document of another person. This would consequentially prohibit the extortion of money, property, or pecuniary benefit. Such legal violations will be classified as a Class 5 felony in the state of Virginia.

Virginia HB 2923 – Chapter 525 (Signed 03/19/2007)

The act creates a legislative Commission for the purpose of developing and implementing a State Plan for the Prevention of Human Trafficking.

Virginia SB 815 - Chapter 547 (Signed 03/19/2007)

The law defines the crime of human trafficking and the punishment of the offense. The law indicates any human trafficking with purpose of commercial sex acts or sexually explicit performance a felony. This legislation also defines human trafficking as racketeering activity. Additionally the bill provides for civil liability, business entity liability, restitution to victims, and forfeiture of trafficker assets.

ID/Driver’s Licenses/Other Licenses (38)

38 laws were enacted in 29 states: Arkansas, Arizona, California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New York, Nevada, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Vermont and Wyoming.

Arkansas HB 1500 – Act 735 (Signed 03/30/2007)

This law requires applicants for alcohol licenses to publish their notice in local newspapers and periodicals in circulations that are relevant to the location of the establishment. Applicants for these licenses must be U.S. citizens or have legal resident status.

Arizona HB 2391 - Act 187 (Signed 05/08/2007)

This law requires spirituous liquor licensees to be a citizen of the United States and a bona fide resident of this state or a legal resident alien who is a bona fide resident of this state.

California SB 997 - Chapter 203 (Signed 05/14/2007)

This act relates to existing law that regulates the transfer of firearms and provides exceptions to various reporting requirements for certain law enforcement entities and licensed firearms dealers. It requires applicants to such licenses to be U.S. citizens or legal resident aliens..

Connecticut SB 1437 (Signed 06/11/2007)

The department shall prepare a certification of birth registration or a certificate of foreign birth for any person born outside of the country and adopted by a resident of this state.

Florida SB 2114 – Chapter 147 (Signed 06/15/2007)

Relating to driver’s license applications, this law limits the liability of a caseworker who signs an application for a driver's license for a minor who is in foster care. The bill requires all applicants to be U.S. citizens and provide documentation that proves that they are of a “nonimmigrant classification”.

Georgia HB 321 – Chapter 333 (Signed 05/29/2007)

This act relates to bona fide conservation use property and changes certain eligibility requirements with respect to conservation use assessment to include natural citizens (citizens by birth) and naturalized citizens (citizens by law).

Georgia SB 5 - Act 11 (Signed 05/11/2007)

The act permits the Governor of Georgia to delay implementing the requirements of the Real ID Act until the Department of Homeland Security has issued regulations that the Governor finds will adequately protect the interests of the citizens of Georgia. It relates to citizenship and legal resident alien status in Georgia.

Illinois SB 533 (Signed 8/23/2007)

This legislation increases the penalties for the offense of driving with a revoked driver's license, permit, or privilege to operate a motor vehicle, if the revocation was because of the offense of reckless homicide or a similar law of another state. The bill states that any defendant who is defined as an alien by the Immigration and Nationality Act may be subject to deportation.

Illinois SB 1094 (Signed 8/31/2007)

An alien who has not been admitted into the United States under a non-immigrant visa is ineligible to receive the Firearm Owners Identification Card.

Indiana HB 1042 - Act 62 (Signed 04/25/2007)

This law provides that any male who is required to register with the Selective Service System may do so when he applies for issuance or renewal of driver licenses at the Bureau of Motor Vehicles and requires a box that the applicant can check and provides for forwarding of information in electronic format. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal resident aliens.

Indiana SB 463 - Act 184 (Signed 05/08/2007)

The act amends the contents of and application procedure for a driver's license, learner's permit, or identification card to comply with federal law; provides for varying expiration dates for a driver's license, learners' permit, and identification cards based on the holder's lawful status in the United States and regulates social security cards; relates to registration of a vehicle brought in from another state. It requires these applicants to be U.S. citizens or legal resident aliens.

Kansas SB 9 (Signed 04/20/2007)

Relating to driver's license and identification card fraud, this law authorizes law enforcement officers and subpoenas in fraud cases; requires submission of a photo identity document unless the document contains the applicant's full legal name, date of birth, address and social security number; requires a social security number to remain confidential; requires proof of lawful U.S. presence and residence in the state; requires a mandatory facial image capture; and incorporates machine-readable technology.

Kentucky SB 144 – Chapter 85 (Signed 03/23/2007)

This legislation relates to driver’s licenses and requires applicants to be US citizens, permanent residents or of other lawful status. The law also requires agencies that are hiring telecommunicators to be U.S. citizens or legal resident aliens.

Louisiana HB 766 (Signed 06/22/2007)

The act requires drivers license applicants presenting foreign passports as proof of identity to present immigration documents showing that they are authorized to be in the United States for at least 180 days, or sixty days for agricultural workers.

Maine HB 612 - Act 24 (Signed 05/15/2007)

This law restricts the issuance of driver's licenses and non-driver identification cards to residents of the state; permits nonresident students and persons on active military duty and the spouses and children of persons on active military duty to be issued non-driver identification cards given that they are U.S. citizens or legal permanent aliens; and relates to migrant workers and others who may be affected by changes in eligibility requirements.

Missouri SB 272 (Signed 7/13/2007)

The law requires certain professionals to be U.S. citizens or legal resident aliens in order to receive the appropriate professional licensing (endowed care cemeteries, landscape architects, chiropractor training, funeral directors and embalmers, physical therapists, professional counselors, social workers, family therapists, pharmacy interns and real estate appraisers).

Missouri HB 780 (Signed 7/13/2007)

The act expands license renewal extensions for professionals completing military service to include all professionals licensed by the Division of Professional Registration. Applicants must be citizens of the United States or be a legal resident alien.

Montana HB 287 - Act 198 (Signed 04/17/2007)

The act directs the state agency not to implement the Real ID act.

Montana HB 450 – Act 237 (Signed 04/24/2007)

This law allows the abbreviation of social security numbers on recreational licenses in the state of Montana. Instead of using the full social security number on this form of state issued identification, the bill requires that only the last four digits of the social security number be used. Applicants for the license must state whether they are United States citizens or aliens.

Nebraska LB 463 (Signed 5/15/2007)

The act creates the Uniform Credentialing Act that provides licensure and legal registration of nurses, alcohol and drug counselors, athletic trainers, audiologists, midwives, nurse anesthetists, chiropractors, cosmetologists, dentists, EMTs, funeral directors, hearing aid dispensers, licensed practical nurses, massage therapists, radiologists, mental health professionals, nursing home administrators, occupational therapists, optometrists, pharmacists, podiatrists, veterinarians, surgeons, and other occupations. Persons applying for these licenses must be a United States citizen or a legal resident alien.

Nevada AB 584 (Signed 6/13/2007)

This legislation provides that a driver of a commercial motor vehicle who has a concentration of alcohol of 0.04 to 0.08 in his blood or breath or is under the influence of a controlled or prohibited substance is subject to a criminal penalty; revises certain provisions governing the issuance and renewal of drivers' licenses and identification cards of US citizens and legal alien residents to comport with the federal Real ID Act.

New York SB 4083 (Signed 07/03/2007)

Due to a shortage of veterinarians and veterinarian technicians, this law grants a one-time 3 year waiver of citizenship or permanent resident alien status, allowing immigrants who are working toward becoming a citizen or permanent alien resident the chance to receive a veterinary license.

North Dakota SB 2112 (Signed 03/07/2007)

This legislation relates to drivers' licenses and non-driver photo identification cards, and issuance to individuals of nonresident status legally residing in the United States; relates to renewal and expiration dates.

Oklahoma SB 920 – Chapter 360 (Signed 06/04/2007)

The act relates to the Security Guard and Private Investigator Act; authorizes issuance of an armed private investigator license and requirements, which include being a U.S. citizen or legal resident alien.

Oregon HB 2247 (Signed 06/13/2007)

The Department of Consumer and Business Services is required to develop a plan to eliminate the sunset of provisions related to services provided by nurse practitioners in workers' compensation claims. States that compensation will not be granted to individuals who are found in violation of U.S. immigration laws.

Oregon HB 2334 (Signed 06/13/2007)

This law modifies and expands requirements for issuance of concealed handgun license and requires U.S. citizenship or that the legal resident alien can document continuous residency in the county for at least six months, has declared intent to acquire citizenship status and can present proof of the written declaration to the sheriff at the time of application for the license.

Oregon SB 447 – Chapter 583 (06/25/2007)

This law broadens the scope of crime of identity theft and false proof of US citizenship and adds to the definition of another person to include that the person may be alive or deceased.

Rhode Island HB 6161 / SB749 – Act 191 (Signed 07/02/2007)

The law states that a Rhode Island license or identification card will be provided to residents on or after their twenty-first birthday proving legality of drinking age provided the applicant can prove he or she is a U.S. citizen or legal alien resident.

South Carolina SB 449 (Signed 06/13/2007)

The act states that South Carolina will not participate in implementation of the Real ID Act.

South Dakota SB 180 (Signed 03/26/2007)

The legislation provides for the recognition of certain adoption orders from foreign jurisdictions and provides for the issuance of birth certificates for certain inter-country adoptions under certain conditions as a means of identification and proof of U.S. citizenship.

Tennessee HB 1827 - Act 194 (Signed 05/21/2007)

Relating to Driver Licenses, this law removes provisions for certificates of driving and provides for temporary driver licenses for persons whose presence in the country has been authorized by the federal government.

Texas HB 2783 (Signed 06/15/2007)

The law requires those persons applying for a provisional mortgage brokers license to be a US citizen or legal resident alien.

Utah HB 48 – Act 136 (Signed 03/12/2007)

The law states that alien residents and alien nonresidents within the State of Utah may purchase hunting, fishing, trapping, seining, and fur dealer licenses and certificates of registration upon the same terms as a resident citizen.

Virginia HB 2058 – Act 269 (Signed 03/12/2007)

This law rewrites the Notary Law to include electronic notarization and details the application and technology requirements for electronic notarization which includes providing proof of U.S. citizenship or an alien registration card.

Virginia HB 2471 - Act 493 (Signed 03/19/2007)

This act relates to special identification cards. It provides for valid documentary evidence that the applicant is a citizen, legal permanent resident or a conditional resident alien; exempts an applicant whose date of birth is 1937 or earlier who has previously held a State issued driver's license or special identification card, provided that such license or card has not been expired for more than five years.

Virginia HB 2653 – Chapter 509 (Signed 03/19/2007)

This legislation prohibits dealers to sell, rent, trade or transfer any assault firearm to any person who is not a citizen of the United States or who is not a person lawfully admitted for permanent residence and establishes documentation requirements.

Vermont SB 53 - Act 61 (Signed 05/30/2007)

The law clarifies when a suspension or revocation of a motor vehicle license, nondriver identification card, or registration takes effect and relates to laws concerning driver licenses issued to U.S. citizens and legal aliens.

Wyoming HB 313 – Chapter 214 (Signed 03/08/2007)

The act creates a crime involving the use of false identity, citizenship or resident alien documents and provides for a penalty and for seizure.

Law Enforcement (12)

Twelve laws were enacted in 8 states: Arizona, Colorado, Illinois, Maine, New York, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas.

Arizona HB 2016 - Act 178 (Signed 05/04/2007)

This act provides for the detention of a material witness if testimony of a person is material in a criminal proceeding and if it is shown that it may become impracticable to secure the presence of the person by subpoena because of the immigration status of the person.

Arizona HB 2181 – Act 255 (Signed 06/25/2007)

The law provides funds for immigration law enforcement in the state of Arizona.

Arizona HB 2787 – Act 261 (Signed 06/25/2007)

This legislation amends Arizona law to deny release on bail for a felony if there is probable cause that the individual is an illegal alien.

Arizona SB 1265 (Signed 07/02/2007)

The law relates to the determination of an individual’s country of citizenship after that person has been brought to the agency for incarceration; requires the agency to transmit any information regarding the individual's country of origin and criminal record to the court and the prosecuting agency for the purpose of determining whether that person is lawfully present in the United States and whether that person should be given the option of bail.

Colorado HB 1040 ( Signed - 06/01/2007)

The law requires a no-bond warrant be issued in a criminal case when the defendant is determined to be illegally present in the country and the defendant is either removed from the country or is subject to removal, directs that such warrant be issued when a defendant who has posted a bond is released to the immigration and customs enforcement agency, requires that a defendant arrested on such warrant shall be taken into custody and held, and prohibits court from dismissing criminal charges against such illegal person.

Illinois HB 132 (Signed 8/16/2007)

Whenever a defendant, who is an alien as defined by the Immigration and Nationality Act, is convicted of any felony or misdemeanor offense, the court after sentencing the defendant may, upon motion of the State's Attorney, hold sentence in abeyance and remand the defendant to the custody of the Attorney General of the United States or his or her designated agent to be deported.

Maine HB 864 - Act 209 (Signed 06/04/2007)

This law relates to the right of federal officers with jurisdiction over immigration, customs and border security matters to carry firearms.

New York SB 2100 – Act 50 (Signed 04/09/2007)

The act makes appropriations for services and expenses incurred by the department of correctional services for the incarceration of illegal aliens.

Oklahoma HB 1618 (Signed - 04/17/2007)

Police or peace officer certification requires that the trainee has provided proof of United States citizenship or resident alien status, pursuant to an employment eligibility verification from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services.

Tennessee HB 600 - Act 242 (Signed 06/01/2007)

The act prohibits the transportation of illegal aliens into the state, imposes a fine for such violation, and requires that money received from such fines be applied to the costs associated with deportation of such illegal aliens.

Tennessee SB 1604 – Chapter 165 (Signed - 05/15/2007)

This act requires the department of safety to negotiate a memorandum of understanding with federal authorities to train certain highway patrol officers to perform certain immigration law enforcement functions, and authorizes highway patrol officers certified as trained under such an agreement to enforce federal immigration and customs laws in Tennessee.

Texas SB 1470 (Signed 05/17/2007)

This law relates to notifications required for persons convicted of a misdemeanor involving family violence, including notification that if the defendant is not a citizen of the United States of America, a plea of guilty for the offense charged may result in deportation, the exclusion from admission to this country, or the denial of naturalization under federal law.

Legal Services (3)

Three laws were enacted in three states: Indiana, Maryland and Oregon.

Indiana SB 445 (Signed 4/26/07)

The law regulates notary publics, including prohibiting them from taking acknowledgement from a non-English speaker without having translated and read the instrument to them in their language.

Maryland HB 51 (Signed 5/17/2007)

There is an amount appropriated in this legislation related to immigration legal services for the development, with Catholic Charities, of an Immigrant Service Program Facility.

Oregon HB 2356 – Act 61 (Signed 05/09/2007)

This act makes it illegal to perform any duties that would be classified as immigration consultation without active status in the Oregon Bar.

Miscellaneous (6)

Six laws were enacted in five states: Florida, Kansas, Oklahoma, Oregon and Virginia.

Florida HB 275 – Act 242 (Signed 06/27/2007)

Motor vehicle, motor home, and vessel registration fees require an additional $50 fee for aliens per 12 month period.

Florida HB 985 – Act 196 (Signed 06/09/2007)

This legislation emplaces a $100 fine on vehicles that fail to show the sticker that certifies that they are allowed to transport migrant or seasonal farm workers.

Kansas HB 2140 (Signed 05/11/2007)

This act declares English as the official language of the state of Kansas and requires all documents, instructions, and so forth be prepared in English and states that no office has to produce documents and instruction in any language other than English, but may at their discretion.

Oklahoma SB 816 (Signed 05/14/2007)

This act defines a tax of eight percent instead of thirty percent as used in the Internal Revenue Code, with respect to the Oklahoma taxable income of nonresident aliens.

Oregon SB 118 - Act 223 (Signed 05/31/2007)

This legislation authorizes the Governor to declare abnormal disruption of market under specified circumstances, prohibits merchants and wholesalers from charging unconscionably excessive prices for essential consumer goods or services during a declaration of abnormal disruption of market. The act includes as an emergency a crisis influx of migrants unmanageable by a county.

Virginia HB 1673 – Act 849 (Signed 04/11/07)

The law establishes the Virginia Commission on Immigration in the executive branch of state government. The purpose of the Commission is to study, report, and make recommendations to address the costs and benefits of immigration on the Commonwealth, including the impact on education, health care, law enforcement, local demands for services and the economy, and the effect on the Commonwealth of federal immigration and funding policies.

Omnibus / Comprehensive Measures (1)

One law in Oklahoma.

Oklahoma HB 1804 – Chapter 112 (Signed 05/08/2007)

This law creates the Oklahoma Taxpayer and Citizen Protection Act of 2007 and relates to illegal immigration. It restricts access to driver’s licenses, ID cards and other licenses. It terminates several forms of public assistance and places tighter restrictions on higher education benefits and provides for exceptions with respect to emergency care, disaster assistance and certain immunizations. Requires state and local government’s law enforcement to enforce federal immigration law (Memorandum of Understanding). The law makes it a felony to harbor, transport, conceal or shelter unauthorized immigrants and provides for fines. It creates a rebuttable presumption that unauthorized immigrants are a flight risk with respect to bond determinations. It requires the verification of employment eligibility using the electronic employment verifications system (EEVS) and provides for a discrimination cause of action for the discharge of a U.S. citizen while retaining an unauthorized immigrant on the payroll. This act becomes effective November 1, 2007.

Public Benefits (17)

17 laws were enacted in 13 states: California, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Maryland, Ohio, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Washington and West Virginia.

California SB 330 (Signed 07/02/2007)

This law extends public benefits such as housing, income, and educational support to migrant workers in California and requires agencies distributing benefits to comply, including community action agencies.

Colorado HB 1255 (Signed 05/14/2007)

The act allows a court in a child-custody proceeding to consider the probability that a party will abduct a child to another state or a foreign jurisdiction. It enables the court to issue an abduction prevention order with provisions the court determines necessary to protect the safety of the child after it finds evidence of a credible risk of abduction if the petitioner or respondent is undergoing a change in immigration or citizenship status that would adversely affect the respondent's ability to remain in the United States legally.

Colorado HB 1314 (Signed 3/1/07)

This law requires proof of lawful residence in the United States for receipt of public benefits.

Colorado SB 165 (Signed 3/22/07)

This act concerns a supplemental appropriation to the Department of Human Services

for “Systematic Alien Verification.”

Idaho SB 1157 (Signed 3/30/07)

This law requires the verification of lawful presence in the United States of persons 18 years and older prior to receipt of public benefits; provides for exceptions.

Illinois HB 202 (Signed 8/28/2007)

The law defines those capable of participating in youth-build programs and allows for migrant children among other categories.

Indiana SB 504 (Signed 5/4/07)

This law sets requirements for “qualified aliens” for TANF and requires verification of legal residence.

Kansas SB 18 (Signed 04/05/2007)

The Uniform Child Abduction Prevention Act sets guidelines for judges to determine when a child is at risk for abduction, including whether the petitioner or respondent is undergoing a change in immigration or citizenship status that would adversely affect the respondent's ability to remain in the United States legally.

Kansas HB 2599 (Signed 05/11/2007)

This legislation describes which benefits immigrants may receive and are excluded from and requires verification.

Maryland HB 50 (Signed 5/8/07)

This act includes monies for immigrant programs, benefits, and supplements benefits in some areas, such as healthcare, when legal immigrants would be excluded from federal benefits.

Maryland SB 6 (Signed 3/22/07)

The law defines what benefits and aid legal immigrants may receive and the requirements they must meet to attain those benefits.

Ohio HB 119 (Signed 6/30/2007)

This legislation defines state benefits for immigrants in terms of public education and for migrant workers mostly in terms of childcare and healthcare.

Texas SB 589 ( Signed 6/15/07)

This act relates to Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) employment programs and participation in those programs by certain parents who are not TANF recipients and makes legal status and verification a requirement for TANF.

Utah SB 35 – (Signed 3/14/2007)

Vermont HB 523 (Signed 5/17/07)

This act relating to moving families out of poverty establishes different social programs and prescribes boundaries for programs that would help immigrants who would be federally ineligible for certain benefits by supplementing them with state funds.

Washington HB 1092 (Signed 5/15/07)

This legislation provides a $14 million subsidy for facilities which house low income migrant, seasonal, or temporary farm workers.

West Virginia SB 518 (Signed 4/3/07)

The act defines eligibility for the West Virginia Works program and creates specific categories of immigrants for which exceptions are made.

Voting

One bill in Arizona was vetoed by the Governor.

Arizona HB 2403 (Vetoed 07/02/2007)

This legislation would have instructed county recorders in Arizona to reject any application for voter registration that is not accompanied by satisfactory proof of citizenship and furnishes a list of documents that satisfy the requirement.

Resolutions (38)

38 Resolutions were adopted in 14 states: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Nevada, New Mexico, South Carolina, Utah, Vermont and Washington.

Alabama HR 344 (4/26/07)

This resolution notifies groups that would be involved in the act or a judicial response to the act that illegally voting or registering can be charged with a “Class C” felony.

Alabama SJR 22 (6/7/07)

This joint resolution establishes the Join Interim Patriotic Immigration Commission, outlines its duties, responsibilities, purpose and membership.

Arizona HCM 2012 (4/18/07)

This memorial requests that the rules of engagement for National Guard troops on the Mexican border be changed to allow soldiers to defend against, engage, pursue and apprehend illegal entrants and that the National Guard should be placed in a primary enforcement role until the Border Patrol receives its full complement of officers as approved by Congress.

Arizona HCR 2007 (4/3/07)

This resolution expresses support for the placement of Poland on the Visa Waiver Program list.

Arizona SM 1003 (2/20/07)

This memorial urges the Congress of the Unites States to enact legislation repealing the privacy violations contained in the Real ID Act of 2005. This memorial requests that the U.S. Congress take immediate action enacting legislation to amend the REAL ID Act or repeal segments.

Arizona SM 1004 (4/30/07)

This memorial requests that the Congress continue funding and completion of SBI-net a program that assists in the apprehending and processing of people who cross Arizona's border illegally; facilitates legitimate cross-border travel and commerce by the target date of December 31, 2008.

Arkansas HR 1003 (3/29/07)

This resolution requests the United States President and Congress to secure borders and develop a comprehensive immigration policy and specifically requests: (1) Securing our nation’s borders by stopping unlawful entry that is now made by many means of transportation; (2) Developing a guest worker program (this does not mean amnesty) that efficiently and quickly processes applicants for guest worker status while adequately screening applicants for criminal backgrounds and employability; (3) Developing a guest worker taxation system that, in addition to emergency services, would be used to provide limited basic health care services to guest workers; (4) Cooperating with and assisting other countries in developing procedures and databases in those countries necessary for criminal background checks, the listing of each citizenship held, the employment skills, and the educational background of a visitor or immigrant to the United States; and (5) Cooperating with the State of Arkansas and other states in order to address current problems faced in the states by the illegal immigration that now exists.

Colorado HR 1008 (05/17/2007)

This resolution asks the federal government for reimbursement for costs of incarcerating illegal immigrants.

Delaware HR 32 (06/27/2007)

This resolution directs the Delaware Economic Development office to study the costs and impact of undocumented immigration on Delaware.

Hawaii HR 94 (5/14/07)

This resolution requests the Hawaii Department of Health to convene a task force concerned with providing services to migrants from Micronesia, the Marshall Islands, and Palau.

Hawaii HR 162 (5/14/07)

The resolution requests the Department of Human Services to facilitate provision of social services to non-citizen victims of human trafficking.

Hawaii HR 229 (5/14/07)

This resolution requests the speedy issuance of visas for family reunification.

Hawaii HR 250 (4/12/07)

This legislation expresses Hawaii’s support for international education pulling students into the state and cites it as key to the state’s future.

Hawaii HCR 190 (5/14/07)

This resolution requests the United States Congress to enact H.R. 1287 and S. 671 relating to Filipino family reunification, or similar legislation, to provide priority issuance of visas to Filipino Veterans’ Children with Approved Immigration Petitions.

Hawaii SR 13 (3/13/07)

The resolution opposing the creation of a national identification card and the implementation of the Real ID Act of 2005 and asks Congress to repeal the REAL ID Act of 2005.

Hawaii SR 18 (3/15/07)

The resolution requests enactment of H.R. 901/s. 4070, "Filipino Family Reunification", or similar legislation that grants the priority issuance of visas to veterans' children with approved immigration petitions.

Hawaii SR 21 (3/29/07)

A resolution condemning the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services' Fee Increase. This resolution recognizes the addition that immigrants make to Hawaii and expresses criticism towards the USCIS fee increase.

Hawaii SR 113 (4/18/07)

This resolution expresses Hawaii’s support for international education pulling students into the state and cites it as key to the state’s future.

Hawaii SR 142 ( 4/20/07)

This resolution requests the Hawaii Department of Health to convene a task force concerned with providing services to migrants from Micronesia, the Marshall Islands, and Palau.

Hawaii SR 144 (4/20/07)

The resolution requests the Department of Human Services to conduct a statewide needs assessment of non-citizen victims of human trafficking and seeks to provide services to non-citizen victims of human trafficking in Hawaii.

Hawaii SCR 31 (5/9/07)

This resolution opposes the creation of a national identification card and the implementation of the Real ID Act of 2005. This resolution expresses Hawaii’s criticism of the REAL ID Act and the idea of a National ID card and asks Congress to repeal the REAL ID Act of 2005.

Hawaii SCR 41 (5/9/07)

This resolution strongly opposes the fee increases proposed by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. This resolution recognizes the addition that immigrants make to Hawaii and expresses criticism towards the USCIS fee increase.

Hawaii SCR 173 (5/9/07)

This resolution expresses Hawaii’s support for international education pulling students into the state and cites it as key to the state’s future.

Hawaii SCR 220 (5/9/07)

Idaho HJM 3 (3/13/07)

This memorial affirms the state's support of the United States' campaign to secure our country and urges members of Idaho's congressional delegation to support measures to repeal the federal REAL ID Act of 2005.

Illinois HR 71 ( 4/24/07)

This resolution asks Congress to pass a Constitutional Amendment to allow those who attained permanent resident status by the age of one to run for President. It would affect children adopted from outside of the United States.

Illinois HJR 27 ( 5/22/07)

This resolution expresses opposition to the REAL ID Act and asks that it be repealed.

Nevada AJR 6 (5/14/07)

This resolution urges Congress to Repeal the REAL ID Act of 2005.

New Mexico HM 15 (02/19/2007)

The memorial requests Congress to develop and implement a national immigrant worker program.

New Mexico HJM 3 (04/11/2007)

This memorial requests that the federal government provide greater funding and assistance to the state of New Mexico to offset the disproportionate financial cost of being a border state.

New Mexico HJM 26 (04/11/2007)

This memorial requests the New Mexico Legislative Council to create the Interim Border Security and Border Affairs Committee, which will be charged with researching and developing solutions and recommendations for strengthening the border in New Mexico while not restricting but boosting the border economy. It will examine any additional issues having to do with the border.

New Mexico HJM 29 (04/11/2007)

This memorial supports Sunland Park’s efforts to have the federal government establish a vehicle and pedestrian, noncommercial customs port of entry at the international border between Ciudad Juarez-Anapra, Mexico, and Sunland Park, New Mexico.

New Mexico SJM 7 (03/12/2007)

South Carolina SB 531 (3/7/07).

This resolution requests the governor of South Carolina to declare by executive order that no illegal alien is eligible to receive any services or assistance provided by the department of social services or any other state agency to the extent allowed by law.

South Carolina HB 3989 (05/31/2007)

Memorializes Congress to repeal or decline implementation of the "Real ID Act of 2005" and to oppose the creation of a federal national identification card.

Utah HJR 14 (3/13/07)

This joint resolution of the legislature gives the Legislative Management Committee items of study it may assign to the appropriate interim committee. This joint resolution sets aside a wide area of topic for study for legislation, including requests related to immigrant populations to study the identity theft impact of illegal immigrants and human trafficking.

Vermont SJR 22 (4/13/07)

This joint resolution urging Congress to enact S. 340 or H.R. 371, the “Agricultural Job Opportunities, Benefits, and Security Act of 2007”. This joint resolution states the tremendous value of immigrant and migrant workers to Vermont and requests that Congress pass said act.

Washington SCR 8404 (4/12/07)

This legislation approves the 2006 update to the state comprehensive plan for workforce training entitled “High Skills, High Wages.” This update includes increases in adult basic education and English training along with skill training for immigrants.

Note: A variety of terms exist that refer to the entire class of immigrants residing in the United States without authorization. These terms include unauthorized immigrant, unauthorized migrant, undocumented immigrant, illegal immigrant, and illegal alien. For consistency, this brief usually refers to ‘unauthorized immigrant’ for those immigrants who have either entered unauthorized into the United States or who have overstayed their visas. The term “illegal alien” is used where state legislation specifically refers to “illegal alien” . The term “non-citizen” includes both legal and unauthorized immigrants.

For the report “2006 State Legislation Related to Immigration: Enacted and Vetoed”, please log on to: http://www.ncsl.org/programs/immig/6ImmigEnactedLegis3.htm

For the “Overview of State Legislation Related to Immigration and Immigrants in 2007, please go to: http://www.ncsl.org/programs/immig/2007StateLegislationImmigration.htm

For corrections and additions, please contact: Dirk Hegen at dirk.hegen@ncsl.org

StateNet

Prepared by:

Dirk Hegen
Immigrant Policy Project
National Conference of State Legislatures
Washington, DC office

Tel.: 202 / 624- 5400

Contributors to this report were Ann Morse, Sheri Steisel, JP Howard and Mark Kennedy Serrat in NCSL’s Washington office.

This research was possible through the generous support of the Carnegie Corporation of New York.