ballot measure
Border Security Ballot Measure Receives Resounding Backing from Arizonans
By Daniel Stefanski |
In a significant decision, Arizona voters approved a border security measure during the November General Election. Proposition 314 received more than 62% of the votes cast, reflecting strong public support for the initiative.
This proposition, referred by the Arizona Legislature, criminalizes several actions. It makes it a crime for individuals not lawfully present in the U.S. to provide false information on applications for public benefits and employment. Additionally, it penalizes entering Arizona outside of designated ports of entry and selling fentanyl that leads to someone’s death.
State Senator Janae Shamp, a key architect behind this proposal, expressed her approval following the passage. She stated, “Our law enforcement asked me to create this measure because their hands were tied when it came to protecting our communities from the Biden-Harris border crisis. When Governor Hobbs vetoed the Secure the Border Act, I believed it was crucial to let the people decide.”
Shamp emphasized the necessity of safe communities, free from crime and drugs. “I will always fight for what’s best for Arizonans,” she affirmed, highlighting her commitment to public safety.
Arizona Senate President Warren Petersen reacted to the judicial decision that allowed the measure to proceed to voters, asserting that it showcased a desire for sanity over chaos. He criticized Democrats and the governor for aligning with what he termed radical left activists rather than Arizona families seeking security. “We’re grateful we are able to provide this opportunity to voters,” he noted.
Former President Donald Trump also weighed in on the issue during a campaign event in Arizona, endorsing measures that would hinder illegal immigration. “I endorse anything that is going to make it more difficult for people to come into our country illegally,” he stated, amplifying the measure’s prominence during the campaign season.
This legislative action followed Governor Katie Hobbs’ veto of SB 1231, which would have similarly addressed illegal entry, establishing penalties and offering protections to law enforcement. In response, Shamp and her Republican colleagues worked together to bring HCR 2060 to the ballot, solidifying their focus on border security.
Daniel Stefanski is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.