By Alabama Public Radio
Washington DC – A new law regarding Alabama's Medicaid recipients takes effect next month. Beginning July 1st, recipients will have to provide proof of U-S citizenship to keep their benefits. President Bush signed the Deficit Reduction Act into law in February. It's intended to keep illegal immigrants from improperly receiving government-funded medical care. State officials say current Medicaid recipients will have to provide proof of citizenship and identity, such as a birth certificate and driver's license, at the time of their annual review in order to remain eligible for the program.