CARSON CITY, Nev. (AP) — A proposal being considered by Nevada lawmakers would make immigrants living in the U.S. illegally eligible for a state program that assists violent crime victims.
The proposed bill would change the current eligibility requirements of the state's Victims of Crime program, which provides financial assistance to victims of various crimes including sexual assault, elder abuse and homicide.
The proposal from Assemblywoman Teresa Benitez-Thompson would eliminate the requirement that victims be a citizen or legal resident of the United States in order to receive financial help.
The Democrat from Reno says Nevada is one of a few states that does not allow noncitizens to apply for assistance.
The program's funds come from various sources including court filing fees and forfeited property proceeds.