Arizona senate's ICE Act passage highlights state-local immigration cooperation

The Arizona State Senate has advanced legislation that mandates local enforcement cooperation with federal immigration authorities, signaling a potential shift in how immigration laws are handled in the state.

A Republican-backed bill, the Arizona Immigration, Cooperation, and Enforcement Act, cleared the Senate on Thursday and now awaits deliberation in the Arizona House before possibly reaching the desk of Democrat Gov. Katie Hobbs, as Just the News reports.

The proposed legislation, also known as Senate Bill 1164 (SB 1164), is generating significant interest across Arizona's political spectrum. With Republicans maintaining control of both legislative houses, the bill's progression was widely anticipated. Senate President Warren Petersen, who sponsored the bill, secured unanimous support from fellow Republican senators.

Key Provisions Aim for State, Federal Alignment

If passed and signed into law, the AZ ICE Act would compel state and local law enforcement agencies to align efforts with federal immigration authorities. A key provision mandates that sheriffs' offices and the state's Department of Corrections comply with immigration detainment requests issued by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Under the bill, law enforcement agencies must finalize formal agreements by Jan. 1, 2026. These agreements will facilitate collaboration with both the U.S. Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security. Proponents argue that the bill underscores Arizona's commitment to fortifying border security. "It is vital that Arizona law enforcement agencies are unleashed to join efforts to secure our border and safeguard our communities,” said Petersen. Proponents argue that the legislation answers public demand for more robust action against illegal immigration.

Potential Consequences for Non-Compliance

SB 1164 carries potential financial repercussions for non-compliance. Cities or towns found in violation of the bill's provisions risk losing state-shared revenue allocations.

Moreover, the bill empowers state lawmakers to file complaints with Attorney General Kris Mayes should any city fail to facilitate proper cooperation with federal authorities. County sheriffs must also adhere to detainment requests, further emphasizing the integration of state and federal efforts. Arizona Sheriffs’ Association, an influential supporter of the bill, maintains that SB 1164 will enhance community safety across the state. Yavapai County Sheriff David Rhodes stated that the bill will ensure communities remain secure.

Opposition Voices and Ongoing Protests

Despite backing from Republicans and law enforcement groups, the ICE Act has faced criticism from Democratic legislators and immigrant advocacy groups. Opponents express concerns over potential racial profiling impacts on immigrant communities.

In response to the legislation, protests have erupted at the Arizona Capitol in Phoenix. Hundreds of participants have voiced opposition, arguing the bill may exacerbate tensions between immigrant populations and law enforcement. Protesters raised concerns that such policies could lead to discriminatory enforcement practices and erode trust in law enforcement agencies among minority communities.

Governor's Role in Immigration Policy

Hobbs's stance is particularly significant in this legislative process. She has recently issued an executive order advocating for cooperation between state-local agencies and federal immigration authorities. Her decision on SB 1164 remains pivotal to its ultimate implementation. The governor's executive order established Operation Desert Guardian, a joint task force aimed at combating smuggling and trafficking activities in Arizona. Such actions indicate her general support for cooperative immigration enforcement policies.

The path forward for SB 1164 now rests with the Arizona House of Representatives. Should it pass, it will move to Gov. Hobbs's desk. Petersen remains optimistic about the bill’s prospects, urging the governor to consider its potential to bolster Arizona’s border protection efforts. "I'm hopeful that Gov. Hobbs is listening to her constituents and will sign this bill when it reaches her desk," Petersen added, reinforcing his confidence in the legislation’s necessity.

The looming decision on this bill represents a critical juncture for Arizona, as it emphasizes the ongoing national discourse surrounding immigration policy and border security. The state’s approach could serve as a model and point of debate for other regions grappling with similar issues. The fact that Yavapai, La Paz, and Pinal counties have already engaged in jail enforcement agreements with federal authorities underscores Arizona’s proactive engagement in immigration enforcement efforts.

Hobbs's potential signing of the AZ ICE Act will ultimately signal her ongoing commitment to addressing the complexities surrounding immigration law and policy. As the legislation moves through the final stages, Arizona awaits a definitive direction on this pivotal issue.