Saenz v. Roe
Supreme Court
526 U.S. 489 (1999)
Relevant factsFree
California passed a statute limiting welfare benefits for families who had lived in the state fewer than twelve months to the amount payable in their prior state of residence. Roe (plaintiff), a California resident seeking benefits, brought a class action against Saenz, Director of California's Department of Social Services (defendant), on behalf of first-year residents; the lower courts ruled for Roe, and the Supreme Court granted certiorari.
IssueFree
Whether a state may limit the availability of welfare benefits to families residing in the state for less than twelve months consistent with the Privileges and Immunities Clause.