Keeping Indiana safe is one of my top priorities. While the United States provides a better life and freedom for many people, we must also ensure those who come here do so legally and are vetted properly. Immigration enforcement is primarily the federal government’s responsibility, but the Biden administration’s failed border policies have left every state a border state.
We have been working hard at the Statehouse to fight for Hoosiers against illegal immigration. That's why this year, I co-authored Senate Enrolled Acts 1 and 76. These two new laws help Indiana back up the federal government's work to keep our state safer and make sure resources stay in the hands of Hoosier families, not those who are in our country illegally.
SEA 1 requires state agencies to notify the federal government if a suspected illegal immigrant applies to get taxpayer-funded welfare benefits. This is in partnership with the federal One Big Beautiful Bill's restrictions on illegal immigrants getting welfare benefits.
This ensures that those who are truly in need of welfare receive it and that benefits aren't taken away by people who are here illegally. Welfare fraud is too common, and it's time to fix it.
SEA 76 follows the same theme, ensuring financial assistance only goes to Hoosiers who are here legally. The Family and Social Services Administration will have to submit an annual report to the General Assembly detailing information on how many non-citizens are enrolled in or receiving benefits from programs like SNAP, TANF and Medicaid.
SEA 76 also helps fight illegal immigration by providing tools at the state level to strengthen Indiana's cooperation with the federal government. These measures are a major step forward in ensuring Indiana law enforcement agencies are supported and held accountable when addressing illegal immigration, and opportunities and financial assistance are kept out of the hands of those who are here illegally.
As always, I encourage constituents to reach out to me with any questions or concerns by filling out a "Contact Me" form on the IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/Raatz website or by calling my office at 800-382-9467.
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State Sen. Jeff Raatz (R-Richmond) represents Senate District 27, which includes
Henry, Union and Wayne counties, and portions of Franklin County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
