H.B. 296, introduced by state Representative Josh Clark (R-98), would also require schools to report expenditures for illegal immigrants. Healthcare–related spending information would be published on the state’s Department of Community Health website.
Rep. Clark said the legislation is intended to provide policymakers with “an accurate projection of what illegal immigration is costing our state,” according to the report.
The reporting requirement for schools, at least, faces considerable challenges. A 1982 U.S. Supreme Court ruling (Plyler v. Doe) requires schools to educate all students regardless of legal status, and accordingly, the state’s Board of Education prohibits schools for inquiring about the legal status of students.
The American Civil Liberties Union of Georgia strongly opposes the legislation.
Read the Atlanta Journal Constitution report on Georgia hospitals.
Read more coverage on illegal immigrants and hospitals:
– Physicians Say Arizona Bill Would Deter Immigrants From Seeking Care
– Bill Would Require Arizona Hospitals to Confirm Patients’ Residency Before Admission
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