AR HB1292

Classifies persons not lawfully present in the United States as out-of-state residents for tuition purposes at Arkansas institutions of higher education under Arkansas Code 6-60-214.

Prohibits benefits under Arkansas Code Title 6, Chapters 80 and 82 from being provided to persons who are not United States citizens or are present in the United States illegally under sections 6-80-108 and 6-82-107.

Requires state agencies to verify that applicants for state benefits are lawfully present in the United States before providing benefits, except in emergency or life-saving situations or when exempted by federal law under Arkansas Code 20-76-114.

Mandates applicants to execute an affidavit under penalty of perjury stating they are either a United States citizen or otherwise lawfully present in the United States, with state agencies providing notary services at no cost.

Requires state agencies to document and maintain records beginning July 1, 2011 of types and dollar amounts of benefits provided to persons found to be not lawfully present in the United States, with enforcement without regard to race, religion, gender, ethnicity, or national origin.

Establishes that knowingly making a false statement of lawful presence or citizenship is a Class D felony upon conviction.