The Iowa House of Representatives has forwarded a significant legislative proposal to Governor Kim Reynolds, one that would designate illegal immigration as a state offense within Iowa’s borders. Known as Senate File 2340, the bill secured passage with a vote count of 64-30. Under this legislation, individuals who have been previously denied entry into the United States, deported, or subjected to removal proceedings would face an aggravated misdemeanor if found within the state. Moreover, those with outstanding deportation orders or a history of criminal convictions leading to deportation could incur additional penalties.
Notably, the bill introduces provisions empowering state courts to order the deportation of undocumented immigrants residing in Iowa, and grants law enforcement and state agencies the authority to transport migrants to designated ports of entry to facilitate their departure from the country. Failure to comply with these directives could result in felony charges for undocumented immigrants.
Representative Sami Scheetz, a Cedar Rapids Democrat and the child of an immigrant, expressed reservations about the bill’s approach, emphasizing the necessity for compassion and efficacy in addressing immigration issues. Scheetz argued that the proposed legislation strays from understanding and imposes undue state intervention into what should be a federal matter. He cautioned against fragmenting the national response to immigration challenges by attempting to tackle them at the state level, highlighting the potential drain on state resources through legal battles and diversion of funds away from local communities.
Echoing similar sentiments, Escucha Mi Voz Iowa, an advocacy organization representing immigrant and refugee communities, condemned the passage of the bill. Board member Manny Galvez decried the legislation as unconstitutional and pledged continued opposition through various avenues, including legal challenges, grassroots activism, and advocacy efforts aimed at protecting vulnerable immigrant populations.
In defense of the bill, its floor manager, Representative Steve Holt of Denison, argued for a clear distinction between legal and illegal immigration. He referenced a recent Supreme Court decision granting Texas the authority to enforce similar legislation while awaiting a final ruling on its constitutionality. Holt asserted that states possess the constitutional right to safeguard against what he termed as “invasions,” including high levels of illegal immigration, despite the absence of traditional military threats.
Moreover, Holt criticized the federal government for failing in its duty to secure the nation’s borders, thereby necessitating state-level intervention to protect sovereignty and ensure the safety of citizens. While acknowledging the presence of individuals seeking a better life, Holt underscored the looming threat posed by criminal elements such as gang members, drug traffickers, and terrorists, emphasizing the imperative of robust enforcement measures to safeguard communities.