Cape Politics

Perry to file comprehensive illegal immigration package

New legislation targets illegals in the Commonwealth

BOSTON – Earlier this week, Representative Jeffrey Davis Perry (R-Sandwich) announced his plan to file comprehensive legislation dealing with illegal immigration here in the Commonwealth.  The package, to be filed at the beginning of the next legislative session, will include; a measure to limit public taxpayer funded benefits to illegal immigrants, strengthen the laws as they relate to driving without a license, allow immigration status to be a factor in bail proceedings and a bill to strengthen voter registration by requiring identification.

“This package has one overriding goal which is to protect the rights, safety and tax dollars of law-abiding Massachusetts residents from the onslaught of illegal immigration which is devastating our Nations’ economy.”
- Representative Perry

In a comment Representative Perry said, “This package has one overriding goal which is to protect the rights, safety and tax dollars of law-abiding Massachusetts residents from the onslaught of illegal immigration which is devastating our Nations’ economy.  My constituents have spoken loud and clear on this issue and I intend to file these pieces of legislation as a direct result to address their concerns.”

The first proposal mandates that individuals applying for non-emergency state and local benefits provide identification verifying their legal residence in the Commonwealth.  The legislation utilizes the Federal Employment Verification System known as the “SAVE program.”  Enacting this legislation would ensure that benefits go only to the citizens whose tax dollars have funded them and not to those that are here illegally. 

As a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, Representative Perry is concerned about the financial impact that illegal immigration is having on our already burdened social services.  “Every year we hear about the lack of funds and resources in the area of health and human services.  This legislation will help limit further abuses of that system and ensure only those eligible to receive benefits will have access to them,” said Representative Perry.

The second piece of legislation would increase the penalties for individuals operating a motor vehicle without a license. Current law limits fines to $100 for each conviction. This proposal would increase the penalties for repeat offenders to a fine of $500 to $1000 and allow a jail sentence of up to 30 days in the House of Correction.  These enhanced penalties are designed to deter such activity and penalize those who repeatedly violate motor vehicle laws by driving without a proper license and insurance.

As Ranking Member of the Public Safety Committee, Representative Perry said, “This legislation is vital in keeping our roadways and citizens safe from unlicensed operators.  We as a Commonwealth have established laws to keep our roadways safe; however, many have disregarded these measures. As a member of the Legislature and former police officer, I will not stand by and allow our traffic laws to be repeatedly violated by those engaging in illegal activity.”

The third bill would allow judges to take into consideration one’s immigration status when determining the amount of bail.  The immigration status is currently not within the criteria for setting bail and has been problematic when illegal immigrants are released and never return for further proceedings.  With the ability for judges to increase bail for those with a heightened flight risk, Representative Perry believes this will help curtail the ongoing problem.

Representative Perry concluded by saying, “I look forward to pushing these bills through the Legislature during my next term.  I am confident that these measures will reduce the financial burdens and safety risks placed on citizens by illegal aliens residing in theCommonwealth.”

Release courtesy of Representative Perry's office. Perry is running for re-election in the 5th Barnstable District.