Additional Coverage:
- Border state Arizona backs having local law enforcement arrest suspected illegal immigrants (foxnews.com)
Arizona voters have approved a measure allowing local police to arrest migrants suspected of illegally entering the state.
Proposition 314 makes it illegal to enter Arizona outside official entry points, and permits state and local law enforcement to detain suspects and initiate deportation proceedings. Law enforcers are shielded from lawsuits under the proposal.
However, the law will not take effect until a similar law in Texas or another neighboring state has been in place for 60 consecutive days.
Proponents say the measure will enhance border security in response to the influx of illegal immigration under the Biden administration.
Opponents argue it will harm Arizona’s economy and reputation, and could lead to racial profiling of Latinos.
President-elect Trump has vowed to focus on border security in his 2024 campaign and has threatened tariffs on Mexico if illegal border crossings continue. He also plans to reverse Biden’s border policies and restore the Remain-in-Mexico policy.