Oklahoma City, Okla. — Senate Bill 1554, introduced by State Sen. Randy Grellner, is stirring controversy in Oklahoma as it seeks to prohibit non-governmental organizations (NGOs) from using state funds to support undocumented immigrants.
The bill would make it a felony for NGO officers or members to provide material support to undocumented immigrants, with penalties including imprisonment and fines up to $50,000.
The Homeless Alliance, a nonprofit organization, has voiced strong opposition to the bill. CEO Meghan Mueller said, “As a nonprofit serving people experiencing homelessness, the Homeless Alliance strongly opposes proposed Oklahoma legislation that would punish nonprofit organizations and their staff for providing basic humanitarian assistance to people in crisis.”
Mueller emphasized the organization’s role in providing essential services without questioning immigration status. “We are not an enforcement agency, and we do not have the capacity or authority to conduct immigration screenings for people seeking urgent help,” she said.
Mueller highlighted the organization’s response during a historic snowstorm, providing lifesaving shelter to hundreds.
A resident at the Homeless Alliance, known as Peewee, expressed his views, stating, “Man, we got more immigrants getting more help over here more than anything!”
He also linked the broader immigration issue to President Trump.
The bill is in its early stages and must pass both the Senate and the House before being signed by the governor to become law.
