TO CREATE THE PUBLIC SERVICES ONLY FOR CITIZENS ACT; AND TO REQUIRE VERIFICATION OF CITIZENSHIP AND RESIDENCY IN ORDER TO RECEIVE PUBLIC ASSISTANCE.

HB 1909, known as the "Public Services Only for Citizens Act," requires state agencies and political subdivisions to verify the United States citizenship and Arkansas residency of applicants aged 18 and older for federal, state, and local public benefits. Applicants must attest to their citizenship status under penalty of perjury. The bill outlines specific documents, such as birth certificates or utility bills, that can be used for verification. If an applicant is found not to be a U.S. citizen, their benefits are terminated, and the state can recover any received benefits, with potential prosecution for theft of public benefits. State agencies must also report annually on the results of these verification requirements.