Gov. Bill Haslam signed into law a bill, which is intended to prevent illegal immigrants from seeking to claim public benefits in Tennessee.

The SAVE Act, house Bill 1379 sponsored by Rep. Joe Carr (R—Lascassas), requires each Tennessee department and State agency to verify the lawful presence in the U.S. of each person 18 years of age and older who applies for state, local, or federal public benefits.

“We have seen far too many instances of illegal immigrants coming to America and taking advantage of the benefits our system offers to citizens who legitimately need support during rough times,” said Carr, a long-time advocate for reform on the issue. “This new law will help us rein in the abuse numerous reports have discovered in the system.”