The Oklahoma House of Representatives has approved legislation that allows state police to arrest individuals for “impermissible occupation” if they are found to be residing in the state without legal authorization. The bill, known as House Bill 4156, received widespread support in the House but faced criticism from Democratic lawmakers who dismissed illegal immigration as a non-issue.
House Speaker Charles McCall emphasized the necessity of addressing illegal immigration at the state level due to what he perceives as a lack of federal action. McCall stated, “The failure of the federal government to address this issue, and the lack of leadership by the Biden Administration, has turned every state into a border state.” He further clarified that while Oklahoma welcomes those who enter the country legally, it will not tolerate individuals who bypass the legal process.
In opposition to the bill, House Democratic caucus leader Cyndi Munson labeled it as “extremist legislation” and argued that immigration is a federal matter, not a concern for Oklahoma. However, proponents of the bill, including House Speaker McCall and Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Treat, underscored the importance of state-level measures to address what they perceive as a crisis of unauthorized immigration.
Under the provisions of HB 4156, impermissible occupation is defined as the willful entry and remaining in Oklahoma without legal authorization to enter the United States. A first offense would constitute a misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a fine of up to $500, with the individual required to leave the state within 72 hours of release from custody. Subsequent offenses would escalate to felony charges, with penalties including imprisonment, fines, and expulsion from the state.
Additionally, the legislation includes a preemption clause that prohibits municipalities from establishing “sanctuary cities,” further aligning with the bill’s intent to address illegal immigration at the state level.
Supporters of the bill argue that illegal immigration poses significant public safety challenges, citing instances of involvement in organized crime, drug trafficking, and human trafficking. However, opponents, primarily Democratic lawmakers, contend that the bill exacerbates incarceration costs and drives undocumented immigrants underground, infringing upon their rights and contributing to racial profiling.
Despite the opposition, the Oklahoma House of Representatives passed HB 4156, reflecting ongoing debates surrounding immigration policy and enforcement measures at both the state and federal levels.
