The Idaho House of Representatives, under Republican control, has passed a new immigration bill reminiscent of a contentious Texas law, with a vote of 53-15 on Friday. This legislation, sponsored by Rep. Jaron Crane, R-Nampa, and designated as House Bill 753, was swiftly ushered through the House after its introduction on Wednesday.
Mirroring elements of the Texas law currently embroiled in legal disputes, the bill criminalizes illegal entry into Idaho, stipulating that non-U.S. citizens may only enter the state via official ports of entry. It also empowers local law enforcement to verify individuals’ immigration statuses and enables magistrate judges to mandate the return of violators to their countries of origin.
Exceptions within the bill are made for individuals with legal U.S. presence, including those with work visas, beneficiaries of asylum, and participants in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program between 2012 and 2021.
Some lawmakers voiced apprehensions regarding the bill’s legal viability. House Assistant Minority Leader Lauren Necochea, D-Boise, emphasized that immigration matters fall within federal jurisdiction, cautioning that the state could face costly legal challenges if the bill is enacted.
Rep. Crane assured his colleagues that any legal defense expenses would be covered by the state’s constitutional defense fund, expressing confidence in the bill’s constitutionality. However, concerns were raised over the rapid progression of the bill, with typically lengthy legislative procedures condensed into just over 48 hours.
Rep. Douglas Pickett, R-Oakley, acknowledged the merits of the bill but expressed unease over its swift advancement, advocating for thorough committee vetting and stakeholder engagement, particularly with agricultural interests.
During a prior public hearing, several organizations, including the Idaho Dairymen’s Association, PODER of Idaho, ACLU of Idaho, and American Immigration Lawyers Association, opposed the bill. Conversely, Kootenai County Sheriff Robert Norris and a representative of Idaho Tough on Crime voiced support.
Despite bipartisan opposition, House Bill 753 now proceeds to the Idaho Senate for further consideration.