Critics Say Immigration Reform Will Run Up Welfare Costs

A Republican senator warned Tuesday that a bipartisan immigration-reform proposal now under consideration would allow illegal immigrants to take advantage of government welfare benefits much sooner than the 13-year time frame outlined in the legislation.

Sen. Jeff Sessions, R-Ala., said loopholes in the legislation would permit those who came to the U.S. illegally to collect cash assistance, food stamps and health care benefits long before they earn a green card and a pathway to citizenship.

Sessions and other critics of the bill believe it will drive up government spending on social programs. Newly legalized immigrants may not have immediate access to federal benefits, but many states don't stop them from getting cash assistance, health care and other benefits.
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