Arizona Lawmakers Clash Over Controversial Immigration Bill Mandating Federal Compliance

Arizona state Representative Teresa Martinez defended her controversial bill aimed at mandating cooperation between state and local governments and federal immigration authorities. During a hearing on House Bill 2099 before the Senate Committee on Military Affairs and Border Security, Martinez asserted, “This bill provides clarity. You will support the Trump administration’s immigration law.”

Since the onset of President Donald Trump’s mass deportation efforts earlier this year, the rate of undocumented migrant deportations has seen a decline compared to the same period under the Biden administration. This reduced pace is attributed to fewer illegal crossings; however, there have been reports of U.S. citizens facing unintended consequences from immigration raids, including members of the Navajo Nation and veterans.

Martinez expressed skepticism towards these reports, suggesting they were exaggerated. In a previous House committee meeting, she acknowledged the likelihood of “collateral deportations” as a result of the administration’s rigorous immigration policies.

State Senator Catherine Miranda questioned Martinez about her previous comments regarding these collateral consequences. Martinez clarified that if ICE or local law enforcement conducted a raid on a violent offender without legal status, other undocumented individuals present would also face deportation, regardless of their own legal circumstances.

“If you are illegally here, I’m sorry but you have to go,” Martinez stated bluntly. In response to Miranda’s inquiry about potentially affecting family members, Martinez prompted, “Do you believe that somebody in this country illegally has a fundamental right to stay?” She firmly concluded, “I don’t think so.”

Despite her insistence that violent offenders should be prioritized for deportation, the White House previously announced a more sweeping approach regarding all undocumented immigrants, treating their status uniformly as criminal. While illegal entry is classified as a federal misdemeanor, many unauthorized immigrants may not have committed any federal crimes, often being individuals who overstayed visas.

Martinez remained resolute, viewing all undocumented individuals as having committed a crime. State Senator Janae Shamp echoed her sentiment, asserting, “A crime is a crime. Breaking the law is breaking the law.”

Critics have raised concerns about the bill’s implications. It lacks provisions allowing state governments to defy federal orders and is set to expire in January 2029, with opponents claiming this reflects partisan motives. Harrison Redman, a lobbyist for the American Civil Liberties Union, articulated strong opposition, stating, “This bill is not about law and order, it’s about control and fear.”

The ACLU has consistently opposed the bill, which initially passed the House along party lines. Following the Senate Military Affairs Committee’s approval, the legislation is now poised for a vote on the Senate floor.