Oklahoma Considers Requiring Reports to ICE on Benefit Applicants

State legislators in Oklahoma are working on new legislation that would force government agencies to notify Immigration and Customs Enforcement when people lacking legal immigration documentation seek public assistance programs. According to lawmakers, the initiative stems from encouragement by White House advisor Stephen Miller.

The proposed measure would require state officials to contact ICE whenever undocumented individuals apply for government programs including nutrition assistance or medical coverage. The reporting requirement would remain in effect even when these individuals are seeking benefits specifically for their children who qualify for such programs.