Plan to Check Legal Status Put on Hold

A proposed plan to verify the citizenship status of those receiving public funds has been put on hold until the state releases new guidelines.

Residents said they are concerned that illegal immigrants may be seeking federal grants, no-interest loans and other financial aid. They want a city policy that would require recipients to first show proof of citizenship or legal residency.

There is no evidence that illegal immigrants have received financial aid administered by the city. The city already takes steps to verify the identify and citizenship of those who receive locally administered financial aid, but some critics said more needs to be done.

City officials will not adopt a new policy until the state Department of Housing and Community Development issues new regulations in the upcoming months.