The proposed legislation, titled the "Public Services Only for Citizens Act," mandates that individuals must verify their citizenship and residency to qualify for public assistance in Arkansas. The bill introduces a new subchapter to the Arkansas Code, which outlines the definitions of federal and state public benefits, as well as the responsibilities of state agencies and political subdivisions in verifying applicants' citizenship and residency status. Applicants aged 18 and older must provide documentation to prove they are U.S. citizens and residents of Arkansas, with specific forms of acceptable proof listed in the bill. Additionally, agencies are required to include statements on application forms that inform applicants of the penalties for providing false information.

The legislation also establishes penalties for individuals who receive public benefits without being U.S. citizens, including the recovery of benefits as a debt to the state and potential prosecution for theft of public benefits. Cases will be closed for individuals determined not to be citizens, rendering them ineligible for future assistance. Furthermore, state agencies must report annually on the outcomes of the verification process to the Legislative Council and the Governor. Overall, the bill aims to ensure that public assistance is exclusively available to U.S. citizens residing in Arkansas.