A bipartisan coalition of state lawmakers has introduced an immigration bill in the House of Representatives in order to address a growing concern.
State Rep. Kathy Rapp (R-65) said she co-sponsored House Bill 2479, titled Support Our Law Enforcement and Safe Neighborhoods Act, because it mirrors a recent law enacted in Arizona. Rapp added that she believes Pennsylvania's version constitutes good legislation.
The proposed legislation would require every agency or political subdivision of the state to verify the immigration status of any adults applying for public benefits. Exceptions would include assistance for emergency health care, short-term disaster relief and immunization.
"Illegal immigration is causing economic hardship and lawlessness in this Commonwealth," the bill states. "Illegal immigration is encouraged when public agencies within this Commonwealth provide public benefits without verifying immigration status."
Rapp said she does not oppose legal immigration, because the country's population is comprised of descendents of immigrants. The United States provides the right way to immigrate, she said, and she welcomes those who want to follow that procedure.
Regarding the backlash caused by the Arizona law, Rapp said polls show the majority of people believe states have the right to protect their borders. Due to illegal immigration, she said some states face a high crime rate.
"They're a burden and cost to taxpayers," Rapp said. "That's our main concern."
With a state budget stretched to the limit, Rapp said legislators must remain accountable to the people. Though not a border state, she said Pennsylvania has some immigrants enter illegally in Philadelphia and other areas.
In addition to Mexico, Rapp said illegal immigrants come from Canada. She said some such immigrants end up in the state's correctional facilities.
If business owners provide employment, Rapp said they should ensure workers came here legally.
Rapp said she read an article recently which included comments from State Rep. Babette Josephs (D-182), chair of the State Government Committee. She said Josephs claimed to have no intention of having the committee debate the proposed legislation.
Rapp said she does not think the proposal has a good chance of passage. However, she said those odds would improve if Republicans gain the majority of seats in the House this fall.