Republican Governor Kim Reynolds of Iowa has recently signed into law a bill that grants local law enforcement the authority to detain undocumented immigrants who have been previously deported or denied entry to the United States. This legislation, known as Senate File 2340, mirrors a law in Texas that is currently under legal scrutiny by the Biden administration.
Governor Reynolds underscored the necessity of the measure, citing concerns over the enforcement of immigration laws by the federal government. She stated, “The Biden Administration has failed to enforce our nation’s immigration laws, putting the protection and safety of Iowans at risk.” Reynolds emphasized that the bill empowers Iowa law enforcement to uphold existing immigration laws.
Scheduled to take effect on July 1, the new law designates it a crime for undocumented immigrants with deportation orders or previous deportations to enter or re-enter the state. The severity of the offense varies; it is classified as an aggravated misdemeanor punishable by up to two years in prison for those with outstanding deportation orders. For immigrants whose removal orders stem from certain misdemeanor or felony convictions, the offense is elevated to a felony.
However, the law does specify exemptions, barring law enforcement from arresting individuals suspected of violating the law at places of worship, medical facilities, or schools. Additionally, immigrants apprehended under the law may have the option to leave the country under judicial approval without facing charges.
Similar legislative efforts to address illegal immigration have emerged in several other states, including Louisiana, New Hampshire, Tennessee, and Oklahoma. Notably, Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed a comparable law in December as part of Operation Lone Star, resulting in a legal battle with the Biden administration.
In Louisiana, GOP State Senator Valarie Hodges introduced Senate Bill 388, which aims to establish similar penalties for undocumented immigrants entering or re-entering the state after deportation. Hodges emphasized the need for action due to what she perceives as an “open border” and federal government inaction.
SB 388 has progressed through the Louisiana Senate and is expected to gain approval in the Republican-controlled legislature before reaching Governor Jeff Landry’s desk. As part of the bill, Louisiana seeks to collaborate with Texas through an interstate compact to address concerns regarding illegal immigration.
These legislative moves reflect ongoing debates surrounding immigration enforcement at the state level, amidst differing approaches and legal challenges from the federal government.
