What is the ruling on working in illicit money transfer, knowing that state laws prohibit it without a license, and it entails severe penalties such as imprisonment and fines?

It is not permissible to transfer money through illegal means. If the prohibition is legal, the benefit behind the prohibition is considered: if there is a benefit for the country and its people, then it is not permissible to circumvent the law. However, if there is no benefit, then adherence to it is not obligatory, unless it results in harm such as imprisonment or confiscation of funds.