http://www.kesq.com/global/story.asp?s= ... =Printable

LAS VEGAS A Nevada state program providing monthly welfare payments to children born in the United States to illegal immigrants has expanded for the last three years.

State figures show the program -- called nonqualified, noncitizen assistance -- has risen from an average of 670 monthly cases statewide in 2003 to 765 cases in 2005.

The program cost increased over the same period from two-point-one to two-point-five (M) Million dollars.

Officials say about 80 percent of state welfare payments are made in southern Nevada, including Clark County and Las Vegas.

The Nevada state Division of Welfare and Supportive Services is expected next month to consider offering help to a new group -- immigrants who've been the victims of abuse.

Officials say the idea is to make it possible for women to leave abusive situations -- even if they're in the country illegally.