The legislature next week is expected to take up HB 1292, which would prohibit all state services, except emergency or life-saving care, to “illegal aliens.” And how will they do this? Every single state agency will have to demand a notarized affidavit of citizenship from every person who seeks state services. Racial profiling not allowed. All must sign. All must be notarized. Dreadfully sick and at a UAMS facility seeking an antibiotic or other relief? This is no emergency. Please stand in line at our notary window first, thank you.

Mean, time-consuming and expensive stuff in the interest of rooting out the occasional balm of state/Christian charity extended to the strangers among us.

Advertisement

Arkansas Times publisher Alan Leveritt, long an advocate for the state’s immigrant community, has written to legislators in opposition to the legislation. His letter follows.

Be a part of something bigger

As a reader of the Arkansas Times, you know we’re dedicated to bringing you tough, determined, and feisty journalism that holds the powerful accountable. For 50 years, we've been fighting the good fight in Little Rock and beyond – with your support, we can do even more. By becoming a subscriber or donating as little as $1 to our efforts, you'll not only have access to all of our articles, but you'll also be helping us hire more writers to expand our coverage and continue to bring important stories to light. With over 63,000 Facebook followers, 58,000 Twitter followers, 35,000 Arkansas blog followers, and 70,000 daily email blasts, it's clear that our readers value our great journalism. Join us in the fight for truth.

Previous article Womack backs off on Obama teleprompter Next article Another earthquake in Central Arkansas