Housing Assistance for Undocumented Immigrants

Recently, Colorado has passed a series of laws aimed toward benefits for undocumented immigrants in the United States. Among these laws is HB21-1054, which “creates, unless otherwise required by federal law, a public or assisted housing benefit exception to the requirement that an applicant for federal, state, or local public benefits verify lawful presence in the United States” (Colorado General Assembly, 2021). The bill thus removes the requirement of paperwork proving one’s legal residence in the United States to apply for housing assistance.

While many have shown support for the passing of HB21-1054 by Gov. Jared Polis, others have expressed reservations concerning beliefs that “the measures will siphon money and services from other residents” (Rodriguez, 2021). However, the bill provides access to essential services and needs like jobs and state benefits alongside housing. Gov. Polis expanded the bill’s massive beneficial role to the people and state of Colorado, sharing:

“Colorado needs the contributions from everybody in our state with all different talents and skills to have good jobs and work and employ their abilities to make us all better off.”

Gov. Jared Polis at the signing ceremony for SB21-077

HB21-1054 is also accompanied by SB21-077, which “eliminates the requirement that the department of education and each division, board, or agency of the department of regulatory agencies verify the lawful presence of each applicant before issuing or renewing a license” (Colorado General Assembly, 2021). The bill stipulates that proof of lawful presence is no longer required of an applicant for a state or local certificate, registration, or license (Colorado General Assembly, 2021). As part of the series of laws benefiting undocumented immigrants, both HB21-1054 and SB21-077 expand access to opportunities once vehemently denied to those without proof of legal residence in the United States.

For more information on immigration and legal assistance for immigration-related matters, click here to visit and learn more about Cima Law Group.