House approves fee on cash remittances to foreign countries to fund law enforcement; exemptions added

The House passed a bill that would add a state-level fee on certain cash remittances to foreign countries and direct proceeds to a fund intended to support law enforcement. The sponsor described the proposal as focused on high-risk cash transfers: "This would create a state fee of 1.5%... only cash transactions... The funds would be used ... for law enforcement," he said on the floor. The measure was amended on the floor to exempt transactions by U.S. citizens who present a valid federal or state Real ID and to exempt transfers to U.S. service members; those exemptions were adopted before final passage.

During debate Representative Eubanks raised constitutional and fairness concerns, urging care that lawful citizens not be treated like suspects: "I understand the intent ... but I don't support the fact that it takes and treats a legal American citizen ... as if they are doing something wrong," he said. Sponsors responded that the bill targets cash transactions done without identification and emphasized a reverse-repealer to allow conference discussions on implementation. The House adopted the strike-all, passed amendments and approved final passage by a recorded vote of 82 yays to 30 nays.

Supporters argued the targeted fee would reduce anonymity for cash remittances believed by law enforcement to be tied to illicit activity and provide a new funding stream for enforcement and victim services; detractors called for clearer procedures for refunds and safeguards for lawful users. Lawmakers agreed to let the Department of Revenue adopt implementing regulations and signaled that conference committee work will address outstanding operational questions.