Bill limits ‘unauthorized aliens’ suing for certain damages, advances

LOUISIANA (KTAL/KMSS) — Louisiana lawmakers are advancing a bill to limit undocumented immigrants from suing for certain damages in car accidents.

Undocumented immigrants are largely ineligible for federal healthcare programs such as Medicaid and Medicare, and are ineligible for most federal benefits aside from emergency care. Due to the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Act of 1996 (PRWORA) signed by President Clinton, undocumented immigrants are barred from accessing federal healthcare programs and aid.

The proposed law, HB436, sponsored by Representative Gabe Firment and Kathy Edmonston, prohibits an ‘award of general damages and past and future wages for unauthorized aliens in an automobile accident. An unauthorized alien is allowed to recover for other special damages.’

They define an “unauthorized alien” as a person who is unlawfully present in the United States, as per the federal Immigration and Nationality Act.

HB436 reported favorably (11-0-1) on April 22nd and is pending House floor action.