MS SB2065

Requires state agencies and political subdivisions to verify lawful presence in the United States for any person 14 years or older applying for state, local, or federal public benefits.

Applicants must execute an affidavit under penalty of perjury stating they are either a U.S. citizen or a qualified alien lawfully present in the United States, verified through the federal SAVE program operated by the Department of Homeland Security.

Exempts verification requirements for emergency medical treatment, disaster relief, public health immunizations and communicable disease treatment, and certain community-based assistance like soup kitchens and crisis counseling.

Makes it a criminal violation under Mississippi law to knowingly make false statements in the required affidavit, with federal citizenship fraud referred to the U.S. Attorney.

Requires annual compliance reports from state agencies administering public benefit programs to the Attorney General, who must report errors to the Department of Homeland Security and monitor the SAVE program for accuracy.