Adams County state senator Doug Mastriano (R-33) has announced a plan to introduce legislation aiming to deter illegal immigration and generate new revenue for property tax and rent relief.
“Illegal immigrants hurt Pennsylvania’s economy by sending money out of the United States and back to their country of origin,” Mastriano said. “This fee would ensure some of that money is used to provide property tax relief rather than going to support the economy of a foreign nation,” said Mastriano in an email.
The bill would impose a 10% fee on international remittances conducted by illegal immigrants who send money oversees through a money transfer licensee or agent.
Revenue generated through the new fee would be used to supplement the state Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program, which provides rebates of up to $1,000 to eligible older adults and people with disabilities age 18 and older.
“International remittances are money sent electronically out of the Pennsylvania economy and into the economies of international destinations. Illegal immigrants use remittances to send money to relatives and friends in their countries of origin. More than $70 billion is transferred annually from the United States to other nations,” said Mastriano.
Democratic candidate Cameron Shroy, who is vying to replace Mastriano in the fall election, made an official statement about the proposed legislation:
“Mr. Mastriano is concerned more about culture war issues than the actual issues facing his district.
While the people of Adams and Franklin Counties are concerned about real-world issues, Mr. Mastriano is busy bullying immigrants.
When I get to Harrisburg my focus will be improving the quality of life of our communities, bringing taxpayer money back to the district, and having the best constituent services in the Commonwealth.
These distractions benefit nobody and only hurt the vulnerable.”