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HB 1789

TO RESTRICT A LOCAL GOVERNMENT FROM PROVIDING FUNDS FOR THE PURPOSE OF ISSUING AN IDENTIFICATION CARD TO AN INDIVIDUAL IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Josh Bryant and 1 co-sponsor

HB 1789 restricts Arkansas local governments from issuing ID cards to individuals without proof of lawful U.S. presence, impacting access for undocumented residents.

Notification that HB1789 is now Act 605
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1789

Summary of HB 1789

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HB 1789
Title: To Restrict a Local Government from Providing Funds for the Purpose of Issuing an Identification Card to an Individual in Certain Circumstances
Status: Now Act 605
Introduced: March 13, 2025
Sponsor: Representative R. Burkes, Senator J. Bryant

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of HB 1789 is to restrict local governments in Arkansas from issuing identification cards to individuals who cannot provide proof of lawful presence in the United States. This legislation aims to clarify the state's stance on identification card programs, particularly in relation to concerns about sanctuary city policies.

Key Provisions

The bill includes the following significant provisions:

  1. Definition of Identification Card:

    • An identification card is defined as one administered by local governments that:
      • Provides access to local services, cultural events, or business activities.
      • Helps residents identify themselves to law enforcement, schools, banks, health centers, or local government departments.

  2. Restrictions on Local Governments:

    • Local governments are prohibited from:
      • Issuing identification cards to individuals who do not provide proof of lawful presence in the United States.
      • Providing funds to any person, entity, or organization for the purpose of issuing such identification cards.

  3. Legislative Findings:

    • The General Assembly asserts that Arkansas is not a sanctuary state and expresses concerns that municipal identification card programs could facilitate illegal immigration.

Affected Parties

  • Local Governments: Cities, counties, and incorporated towns in Arkansas will be directly impacted as they will need to comply with the new restrictions on issuing identification cards.
  • Residents: Individuals seeking identification cards who cannot prove lawful presence in the U.S. will be affected, as they will no longer have access to these local government-issued cards.

Fiscal Impact

According to the Fiscal Impact Statement, there are no additional costs associated with the implementation of this bill.

Legislative Timeline

  • March 13, 2025: Bill filed and read for the first time.
  • March 20, 2025: Passed in the House and transmitted to the Senate.
  • April 9, 2025: Passed in the Senate and returned to the House.
  • April 14, 2025: Notification that HB 1789 is now Act 605.

Conclusion

HB 1789 establishes clear restrictions on local governments regarding the issuance of identification cards, emphasizing the requirement for proof of lawful presence in the United States. This legislation reflects the state's position on immigration and local governance, potentially impacting how identification is managed at the municipal level in Arkansas.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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