May 24, 2013
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) -- Auditors say parts of Alabama's state government are not verifying that people receiving professional licenses are in the country legally.
Alabama passed what was referred to as one of the "toughest immigration laws around" back in 2011.
The state Department of Examiners of Public Accounts released examinations Friday showing several state agencies and offices are not following requirements in a state law targeting illegal immigrants.
The audits said the boards should force applicants to sign a declaration of citizenship and make sure applicants present one of several approved documents to verify they are legal residents.
Reports include allegations that auditors encouraged the boards to enroll in a Web-based service that helps federal, state and local agencies determine an applicant's immigration status.
