Lehigh Times

Rep. Ryan Mackenzie (R-Lehigh) introduced a new legislative package titled "Stop Illegal Immigration in Pennsylvania" at a press conference held at the Capitol on Monday. The proposed measures aim to safeguard American jobs, protect Pennsylvania residents, and manage taxpayer resources effectively.

Mackenzie criticized current federal immigration policies, stating, “Due to the failed immigration policies of the Biden administration, the situation at our borders continues to pose significant challenges. Over the past few years, U.S. Customs and Border Protection has seen record numbers of encounters, with about 10 million immigrants entering the country illegally. This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for comprehensive action.” He emphasized that Pennsylvania is affected by these national trends as well.

The bill package includes several proposals:

- **E-Verify for State Grant Recipients**: Entities receiving state grants would be required to use E-Verify to confirm employee work authorization.

- **E-Verify for Food Industry**: Employers in meatpacking and food preparation must use E-Verify for their employees.

- **E-Verify for Lodging Industry**: Hotels and lodging industry employers would also need to implement E-Verify.

- **Report Health Care Costs for Illegal Immigrants**: Hospitals would report admissions and emergency visits by illegal immigrants annually to assess uncompensated care costs.

- **Ban Out-of-State Driver’s Licenses for Illegal Immigrants**: The bill seeks to invalidate out-of-state licenses issued specifically to undocumented immigrants.

- **Protect Unaccompanied Immigrant Children**: Sponsors of unaccompanied immigrant children would undergo background checks similar to those required for adoptive or foster parents.

- **Crack Down on Human Traffickers**: Encouraging or aiding undocumented immigrants in remaining undetected in Pennsylvania would become a third-degree felony.

Mackenzie urged legislative action on these measures before the session ends, saying, “I believe the legislation I unveiled today would help resolve some of the troubling issues associated with illegal immigration here in Pennsylvania.”

Previously, Mackenzie introduced another six-bill package titled "Cracking Down on Illegal Immigration," which remains under consideration. His ongoing efforts focus on job protection, community safety, and election integrity within Pennsylvania.