Louisiana Moves Forward with Law Similar to Texas Migrant Arrest Measure

In Baton Rouge, Louisiana, the Republican-led Senate made progress on a bill aimed at giving state and local law enforcement the authority to arrest and detain individuals who entered the U.S. without legal permission, a move reminiscent of controversial legislation in Texas.

Amid ongoing disputes between Republican-controlled states and Democratic President Joe Biden over border enforcement, Louisiana has joined a growing number of states seeking to expand their role in immigration control.

Supporters of the bill, including GOP Senator Valarie Hodges, argue that Louisiana has the right to protect the nation and criticize the federal government for failing to enforce immigration laws.

However, opponents argue that the bill is unconstitutional, ineffective in enhancing safety, and could perpetuate negative stereotypes about migrants.

Similar measures have been proposed in other Republican-dominated states. Oklahoma’s House passed a bill prohibiting state funds from being used to assist undocumented residents, while Tennessee is considering legislation requiring law enforcement to cooperate with federal immigration authorities.

Despite not sharing a border with Mexico, Louisiana has seen a surge in proposals targeting undocumented immigrants since new conservative leadership took office.

Louisiana Moves Forward with Law Similar to Texas Migrant Arrest Measure

These include bills aiming to prohibit sanctuary city policies and allocate funds to send National Guard troops to the Texas-Mexico border.

The proposed Louisiana law would criminalize illegal entry or reentry into the state, with penalties of up to one year in prison and a $4,000 fine for a first offense. Repeat offenders could face up to two years in prison and a $10,000 fine. Exceptions would be made for witnesses or victims of serious crimes.

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The bill also authorizes the governor to enter into agreements with Texas and other states for joint border security efforts. Proponents claim this collaboration would enhance surveillance and deter illegal activity.

Critics argue that the bill represents government overreach, may lead to racial profiling, and could strain the court system. However, Senator Hodges maintains that the legislation is necessary to address the border crisis and asserts that Governor Jeff Landry supports the measure.

If approved by the House and signed into law, the bill would only take effect if the Supreme Court upholds the Texas law or if the U.S. Constitution is amended to grant greater authority to states in border enforcement.