An Arizona bill tightening coordination between local police and federal immigration agents advanced in the state Senate this week.
Senate Bill 1055 would require U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or U.S. Customs and Border Protection to be notified when a person who is in the country illegally is arrested.
State Sen. Wendy Rogers, a Republican from Flagstaff and the bill’s sponsor, said the law is intended to clarify current federal and state laws that allow for the sharing of immigration status.
“When someone is under arrest and in the country illegally, local officers should be able to notify federal authorities without hesitation,” said Rogers in part in a news release. “Clear laws enhance public safety and honor those who serve, including our veterans who defend the rule of law. Arizona should prioritize clarity over confusion.”
Republicans said SB 1055 is set for a full Senate vote after passing the Military Affairs and Border Security Committee with broad GOP support.