While we are all very familiar with the term “Anchor Babies,” and the drain they cause on the taxpayers, Rhode Island State Representative Peter Palumbo (D) has brought the problem he refers to as “Anchor Embryos” to our attention.

During a Friday night interview with Fox News’ Greta van Susteren, Palumbo, appearing with his colleague, State Rep. Joseph Trillo (R), told the host: “We have something unique to Rhode Island, it’s ‘Anchor Embryos.’”

Apparently, it is perfectly legal for an indigent, pregnant illegal alien, who presents herself as such, to receive state aid in Rhode Island.

As Rep. Palumbo reported, if pregnant illegal aliens show up at a Human Services office in Rhode Island, they are given the option of Blue Cross, United Healthcare, or Neighborhood Health insurance. They also receive a $450 a month debit card, and $275 a month in food stamps.

According to Palumbo, the extension of such entitlement programs to illegal aliens is costing the state between $150-$350 million a year.

Both Palumbo and Trillo are traveling to Arizona next month to meet with Gov. Jan Brewer, and plan to introduce a bill very similar to Arizona’s SB1070 in their own state.