The bill amends R.S. 46:233.4 to enhance the verification process for applicants seeking public assistance in Louisiana. It mandates that state agencies verify the citizenship or immigration status of applicants for federal, state, or local public benefits, ensuring they are either recognized U.S. citizens or possess satisfactory immigration status as defined by federal law. The bill introduces specific definitions for "qualified alien" in relation to Medicaid, Medicare, and SNAP, and establishes a reasonable opportunity period for applicants to verify their status if it cannot be confirmed through existing data sources. Additionally, it requires that applicants who fail to provide acceptable documentation within this period will have their Medicaid eligibility denied or terminated.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that any applicant found to be ineligible due to unsatisfactory immigration status must be reported to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and their public benefits will be terminated. It also includes provisions for the income and financial resources of individuals rendered ineligible for SNAP to be considered in determining the eligibility of their household. The bill mandates annual reporting by state agencies on the outcomes of these verification processes, including the number of individuals reported to immigration authorities and those who had their public assistance terminated.

Statutes affected:
SB194 Original:
SB194 Engrossed:
SB194 Enrolled:
SB194 Act :