Physicians Say Arizona Bill Would Deter Immigrants From Seeking Care

Arizona hospitals would be required to check patients' immigration status under a state bill that has come under fire from physicians and others in the medical industry, according to a Politico report.

Senate Bill 1405 is the first of the kind in the nation and would require hospitals to confirm patients' legal residency before admitting him or her for non-emergency care. If the individual is in the country illegally, the hospital would have to notify federal immigration officers.

One physician cited in the report said the bill would turn Arizona into "a police state that would try to catch people when they are sick," according to the report. Other physicians fear the restrictions would deter immigrants from seeking medical attention.

Democrats are also criticizing the bill, saying it places the burden on hospitals to act as immigration agents, according to the report. Supporters say the bill provides tools to fight illegal immigration, particularly when hospitals spend millions of dollars on the treatment of illegal immigrants.

While the bill would allow hospitals to offer emergency care to illegal immigrants, the hospital would still have to report the individuals once the care was completed.

The bill was pulled from the Senate Judiciary Committee agenda on Monday because it did not have the votes to pass.

Read the Politico report on Arizona hospitals and immigration.

Read more about the bill for immigration laws in Arizona hospitals:

-Bill Would Require Arizona Hospitals to Confirm Patients’ Residency Before Admission


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