Pennsylvania Congressman Lou Barletta (PA-11) introduced legislation last week to “clarify” that undocumented immigrants protected by Obama’s executive action cannot be issued work permits. 

According to Barletta, the Defense of Legal Workers Act amends current law to clearly state that undocumented immigrants granted amnesty by executive action are not authorized to work in the United States, and leaves in place current processes by which people become legally present and authorized to work. 

“Everyone knows that when you apply for a job, you have to fill out that I-9 form and demonstrate that you’re legally eligible to work here,” Barletta said.  “The president wants to say that there are some people who just won’t have to worry about that.”

Additionally, Barletta has asked the House Appropriations Committee to block the funding of identification cards for undocumented immigrants who are granted protection under the president’s plan.  

“I want to make sure that the wave of amnesty grants does not swamp the millions of people who are legally here and already struggling to find work,” Barletta said.

Last week Obama announced an executive action that will allow an estimated 5 million undocumented immigrants to apply for a temporary legal status and work authorization if they meet certain requirements.