There have been more than 800 cases of so-called “medical repatriation” in the past six years in 15 states, including Ohio, according to a study from the Center for Social Justice at Seton Hall University. John Palmer speaks for the Ohio Hospital Association, which lobbies for hospitals but does not regulate them. 

“To my knowledge, there is not an Ohio law that determines the standards or those criteria.”

Liberal activists have long talked about changes in immigration law. And now conservative activists who are working in Ohio say the medical repatriation situation shows reform is needed. Joe Cole is the executive director of the International Entrepreneurs of Ohio. 
“There are people here undocumented who are working, who are creating jobs, and that’s why we need reform.”

Cole is part of a coalition of conservative business, faith and law enforcement advocates calling itself “Bibles, Badges and Business” to push for immigration reform at the state and federal level.