Local police in Louisiana are on the verge of gaining the authority to apprehend individuals believed to be illegal immigrants. This comes as a result of a bill currently making its way through the state legislature. The proposed legislation takes inspiration from Texas’ anti-illegal immigration law and is just one of several similar bills being deliberated upon in state capitals nationwide.
Introduced by GOP state Sen. Valarie Hodges, Senate Bill 388 establishes a new offense for illegal immigrants who enter or re-enter the state after being deported. Under this law, individuals who violate these provisions can be sentenced to a maximum of one year in prison and fined up to $4,000.
Louisiana’s governor would have the authority to establish an interstate compact with Texas to address the issue of “increased illegal immigration that poses a threat to the safety and security of Louisiana residents.”
SB 388, which was approved by a Senate committee this week, is expected to receive approval from the Republican-controlled legislature and the governor. Hodges, a Republican, stated that the reason behind this move is the “open border” situation and the lack of action from the federal government.
Former Top ICE Official Supports Texas Gov. Abbott in Ongoing Border Battle with Biden
Texas National Guard soldiers are seen waiting near the boat ramp at Shelby Park in Eagle Pass, Texas, on January 26. (Michael Gonzalez/Getty Images)
In an interview with Fox News Digital, she expressed her ongoing concern about a particular issue that has been troubling her for several years. She highlighted the failure of the federal government to fulfill their responsibility of protecting the citizens.
Hodges likened the situation to safeguarding one’s own home.
Eagle Pass has emerged as a key focal point in Governor Abbott’s relentless pursuit of border security. With its strategic location along the Texas-Mexico border, this small city has become a symbol of the state’s determination to address the ongoing challenges posed by illegal immigration.
Abbott’s commitment to securing the border is evident in his decision to deploy additional law enforcement resources to Eagle Pass. The governor understands that this region is a vulnerable entry point for illegal crossings, drug smuggling, and human trafficking. By bolstering security measures in Eagle Pass, Abbott aims to send a strong message that Texas will not tolerate any form of illegal activity.
One of the reasons why Eagle Pass has become the centerpiece of Abbott’s efforts is its proximity to Del Rio, another border town facing similar challenges. The two cities share a common border and are often interconnected in terms of security issues. By focusing on Eagle Pass, Abbott can effectively address the broader concerns of the region, ensuring a comprehensive approach to border protection.
Abbott’s commitment to border security goes beyond just law enforcement. He recognizes the need for collaboration with federal agencies and local communities to address the root causes of illegal immigration. Through partnerships with Border Patrol, ICE, and other federal agencies, Abbott seeks to enhance intelligence sharing, joint operations, and information gathering to disrupt criminal networks and prevent illegal crossings.
The efforts to secure Eagle Pass also extend to infrastructure improvements. Abbott has allocated significant funding to enhance border infrastructure, including the construction of physical barriers and surveillance technology. These investments aim to create a more secure and fortified border, making it harder for illegal crossings to occur.
Abbott’s focus on Eagle Pass has not gone unnoticed. The city has become a symbol of resilience and determination in the face of border security challenges. Abbott’s unwavering commitment to protecting the border has garnered support from both local residents and law enforcement agencies, who appreciate the governor’s proactive approach to addressing this pressing issue.
As the centerpiece of Abbott’s efforts, Eagle Pass serves as a testament to the state’s commitment to border security. By prioritizing this region, Abbott aims to create a safer and more secure Texas, where the rule of law is upheld, and communities can thrive without the constant threat of illegal activity.
Hodges highlighted the occurrence of several violent crimes, including rapes, in Louisiana.
“We believe in having an immigration policy that ensures people register and come to our country legally. It is essential to properly vet individuals and understand their identity, as this is the only way we can effectively protect the people of Louisiana,” she emphasized.
The Biden administration has challenged Texas’ version of the law, which was signed in December and is currently facing legal obstacles in the courts. While it was briefly implemented this month, it was subsequently blocked by the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.
The Texas law, S.B. 4, according to the administration, hampers the enforcement of immigration laws, which is a responsibility held by the federal government.
“S.B. 4 is not only going to make communities in Texas less safe, but it will also impose a heavy burden on law enforcement and create chaos and confusion at our southern border. Rather than focusing on real solutions, S.B. 4 is yet another instance of Republican officials using the border as a political tool,” commented White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre in a recent statement.
Other states are following in Texas’ footsteps, indicating that the legal battle could have significant implications for these states as well. Iowa has already passed a bill, which is now awaiting approval from Gov. Kim Reynolds. Additionally, similar proposals are progressing in New Hampshire, Tennessee, and Oklahoma.
States further inland are increasingly expressing their frustration with the ongoing border crisis, which has been going on for three years now. They are concerned about the negative impacts it is having on their states, such as increased strain on social services, rising crime rates, and various other issues.
The Biden administration is advocating for increased funding and immigration reform, asserting that it is addressing a widespread crisis within a flawed system. On the other hand, Republicans contend that the crisis has been brought about by the policies implemented during the Biden era.
States like Louisiana are taking matters into their own hands amidst the ongoing battle in Washington, D.C. According to Hodges, the bill’s confident advocate, she firmly believes that it will soon be signed into law. She emphasizes that states have a constitutional right to defend themselves.
According to her, the right to state sovereignty and protection from external threats is granted to us by our Founding Fathers and the Constitution. She emphasized that if there is an invasion or imminent danger, the authority of the state takes precedence over the federal government’s negligence. This motivation drove her to introduce the bill, as she believes that if the federal government fails to fulfill its responsibilities, it is up to the states to take action.
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