By Bob Katzen

Senate 5-34, rejected an amendment that would require any agency, organization or other entity receiving public funds for the purpose of providing legal representation in matters involving federal immigration law, to develop and implement mechanisms to ensure that no funds are provided to help an individual not lawfully present in the United States.

“I voted ‘Yes’ because state-funded legal aid programs should prioritize assistance for individuals who are legally present in the United States,” said Sen. Patrick O’Connor (R-Weymouth). ”This amendment adds an important verification safeguard to ensure public resources are used as intended and with transparency.”

Amendment opponents said this would unfairly take away the ability for nonprofits to represent people who are lawfully here in the country but can’t afford to pay a private lawyer to help them.

Sen. Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester), the sponsor of the amendment, did not respond to repeated requests by Beacon Hill Roll Call asking him why he filed it.

Sen. Cindy Friedman (D-Arlington), the chief opponent of the amendment, did not respond to repeated requests by Beacon Hill Roll Call asking her why she opposed it.

(A “Yes” vote is for the amendment that would require recipients to prove that they are here legally. A “No” vote is against the amendment.)

Sen. Patricia Jehlen No