‘Loud and clear’: Border state’s legislature moves to back Trump’s ICE on deportations
Arizona’s legislature is currently considering significant legislation known as the “AZ ICE Act,” which aims to strengthen cooperation with the new Trump administration’s mass deportation efforts. Senate President Warren Petersen, a Republican, is spearheading this initiative, which would mandate sheriff’s departments and the Arizona Department of Corrections to enter into cooperative agreements with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
This proposed legislation is based on section 287(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which authorizes ICE to delegate certain immigration functions to state and local law enforcement officers, including the identification and detention of suspected illegal immigrants. The goal is to enhance collaboration between federal and local authorities to ensure the removal of noncitizens who pose a threat to the safety of communities and the integrity of U.S. immigration laws.
Furthermore, the AZ ICE Act would require law enforcement agencies to comply with ICE detainers, which are requests for notification when an illegal immigrant is about to be released from state or local custody. By enforcing these detainers, the legislation seeks to prevent so-called “sanctuary” jurisdictions from obstructing federal immigration enforcement efforts.
In addition to these provisions, the bill would allocate additional funding to support local law enforcement agencies in their collaboration with ICE. Senate President Petersen emphasized the importance of a comprehensive approach to addressing the border crisis, stating that the legislation would not only protect citizens but also prevent government interference in immigration enforcement.
The recent inauguration of President Donald Trump has signaled a renewed focus on border security and illegal immigration. The administration is gearing up for a large-scale deportation operation, prompting states like Arizona to take proactive measures to align with federal policies. While some local jurisdictions have pledged their support for these initiatives, others have expressed resistance or non-compliance with the deportation operation.
Governor Katie Hobbs, a Democrat, has voiced concerns about what she perceives as a “misguided” deportation operation and has indicated that Arizona will not participate in actions that harm or terrorize communities. Despite the pushback from some officials, supporters of the AZ ICE Act are optimistic about its prospects in the legislature and are hopeful that Governor Hobbs will heed the will of Arizona voters who prioritize border security and public safety.
As the debate over immigration policies continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how states like Arizona will navigate the complex landscape of federal-state cooperation on immigration enforcement. The outcome of the AZ ICE Act and similar legislative efforts may have far-reaching implications for the future of immigration policy in the United States.
