Idaho committee backs bill requiring proof of lawful presence for some state benefits; opponents warn children could be affected

The Idaho Senate Health and Welfare Committee voted to send House Bill 135 to the Senate floor with a “do pass” recommendation after extended testimony and debate over whether the measure would bar some people from state-funded benefits if they cannot prove lawful presence in the United States.

Senator Phil Hart, sponsor of House Bill 135, told the committee the bill would add language to an existing statute requiring people to prove they are in the state legally before receiving certain benefits administered by the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. “This legislation does not take away benefits that might be necessary in an emergency situation,” Senator Hart said, adding that an interview and documentation check would be part of the department’s intake process.

Supporters said the measure protects Idaho taxpayers and state resources. “Citizenship means something and it matters to Americans,” said Las Kleinorth, policy director at the Idaho Freedom Foundation, arguing that the state…