Legal aliens to retain welfare benefits

Wednesday, Oct. 16, 1996 | 11:59 a.m.

CARSON CITY -- Legal aliens receiving welfare benefits in Nevada won't be knocked off public assistance because of the new federal welfare reform law.

State Welfare Administrator Myla Florence said today, "Wherever we had the option, we're extending benefits." This will not have a "negative impact" on the budget since money was included for these recipients in the 1995-97 budget, she said.

Under the federal law, the state had the option of whether to extend benefits for legal aliens.

"The important part is they are legal immigrants," Florence said. "We're encouraging all of them to apply for citizenship."

But she said those legal aliens who apply for welfare in the future are banned for five years under the federal law.

"There is every indication that Congress will revisit this legal alien issue after the election," she said.

There are about 1,300 families in the Aid to Dependent Children Program who have a member who is a legal immigrant. Their payments will not be reduced or cut off.

Those on ADC also will continue to receive Medicaid. So will the 2,400 to 3,400 aged, blind and disabled legal aliens receiving Supplemental Security Income.

But the Social Security Administration will be reviewing the status of these individuals and they could be eliminated from Medicaid between now and Aug. 22. Florence said these individuals, however, might qualify for Medicaid through some other program if their status is not renewed by the Social Security Administration.

Food stamps will also be extended for about 4,080 individuals, at least through April and as long as until August.

Florence said the welfare reform act on food stamps was modified by the subsequent passage of the budget act, which allowed for a longer period for legal aliens.

About two-thirds of Nevada's welfare recipients are in Clark County.