Immigration (DACA & Dreamers)

This House Concurrent Resolution urges the U.S. Congress to pass comprehensive immigration reform to address issues caused by decades of federal inaction. The bill highlights how the lack of updated laws has negatively impacted states, local communities, and families through workforce shortages, economic instability, and family separation. It specifically calls for modernizing immigration pathways to reduce visa backlogs and ensuring that law enforcement actions are conducted with clear accountability and respect for due process. By requesting federal action, the resolution aims to restore predictability to immigration policy and protect vulnerable populations from the consequences of outdated statutes.

SB 254 prohibits immigrants unlawfully present in the U.S. from receiving most Kansas state or local public benefits, including reduced college tuition. It requires applicants 18+ to provide proof of lawful presence (like a driver's license or federal immigration documents) before accessing benefits, and mandates state agencies to verify status through the federal DHS system. The bill also requires immigration status checks for non-citizen criminal defendants during bond hearings, creating a presumption they might flee. Exceptions include benefits required by federal law, and it explicitly excludes driver's license services from the definition of "public benefit."

HB 2373 prohibits non-citizens unlawfully present in the U.S. from receiving most state or local public benefits, directly affecting undocumented immigrants applying for aid. It requires applicants aged 18+ to provide proof of lawful presence (e.g., driver's license documents or federal verification) and mandates agencies to verify status through the federal DHS Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements program. The bill excludes driver's licenses and identification cards from the restriction but prohibits undocumented immigrants from receiving reduced college tuition at public institutions. It also adds a requirement to verify immigration status for non-citizen defendants in criminal cases, creating a presumption they may flee if deemed unlawfully present.