Illegal immigrants wouldn’t be allowed to receive public assistance in Missouri under a bill that has passed the House and now heads to the Senate.

It’s a simple bill that causes a lot of rancor in the House. Representative Michael Brown (D-Kansas City) challenges sponsor Ed Emery (R-Lamar). Local and state public assistance would be denied illegal immigrants unless mandated under federal law. Brown contends that Emery’s measure, HB 1626 , would intimidate illegal immigrants and keep them from seeking the help they need, even emergency medical help.

Rep. Mike Daus (D-St. Louis) worries about the impact on children in the US illegally, because of their parents. He argues many children of illegal immigrants call America their home, because it’s the only home they have ever known.

Emery argues Missouri taxpayers can’t be expected to provide assistance to those not in the country legally. 

Download/listen Brent Martin reports (:60 MP3)