Md. Delegate Proposes Bill Denying Services to Illegal Immigrants

Measure would almost eliminate public services to illegal immigrants

The Maryland House of Delegates Appropriations Committee held a hearing today that could eventually have a huge impact on the lives of immigrants in the state.

Republican House Minority Leader Anthony O'Donnell wants Maryland to require state and local governments to verify adults are legally in the country before providing them most public benefits.

The measure would block illegal immigrants from receiving benefits such as public housing, welfare, food assistance, unemployment benefits and other subsidies.

O'Donnell said the bill would allow undocumented residents to receive some benefits such as emergency health care, prenatal care, disaster relief and immunizations.

The committee, however, has rejected similar measures in 2008 and 2009.

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