Is providing state-funded health care to pregnant, illegal immigrants a cost or a savings?

Interviews with a cross-section of Nebraska lawmakers show many think it could be a smart financial move and the correct moral path.

The issue of prenatal care for illegal immigrants emerged in December, when U.S. officials told the state it had been breaking federal rules by allowing unborn children -- not just their mothers -- to qualify for Medicaid.

For three decades, the practice allowed women -- legal residents and illegal immigrants who didn't qualify for Medicaid -- to get Medicaid-covered care because their children qualified. The rule also allowed more women to be covered because the unborn baby was counted as another person who would stretch family resources.