GOP Legislation Pressures Arizona Police to Collaborate with ICE, Boosting Deportation Authority

Democratic lawmakers and immigrant rights advocates gathered at the Arizona state Capitol on Monday to express strong opposition to a proposed Republican bill. The controversial legislation, known as the Arizona ICE Act, would mandate that police departments across the state cooperate with federal immigration authorities, raising concerns about an increase in deportations.

The Arizona ICE Act requires law enforcement agencies to make their “best efforts to support the enforcement of federal immigration laws,” including entering into 287(g) agreements, which allow local police to act in immigration enforcement capacities. Under this act, at least 10% of police officers at each agency must participate in the federal program.

The 287(g) agreements enable ICE officials to train local officers to take on specific immigration enforcement duties, such as detaining individuals based on their immigration status. Currently, five agencies in Arizona engage in this program: La Paz County Sheriff’s Office, Mesa Police Department, Arizona Department of Corrections, Pinal County Sheriff’s Office, and Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office.

Republican lawmakers in Arizona have long pursued strict immigration policies. They point to recent voter support for such measures, emphasizing a statewide trend that mirrors federal actions. Senate President Warren Petersen, who authored the Arizona ICE Act, highlighted that 62% of voters approved Prop. 314, which criminalizes unauthorized border crossings, as evidence that Arizonans desire stringent immigration enforcement.

“Arizona voters spoke loud and clear last November,” Petersen stated. He argued that the legislation reflects a demand for stronger law enforcement to ensure community safety amid increasing immigration challenges.

Concerns raised by immigrant advocacy groups center around potential racial profiling and civil rights violations. Previous investigations, including a 2011 Department of Justice report, documented significant racial discrimination associated with 287(g) programs during Sheriff Joe Arpaio’s administration in Maricopa County, where Latino drivers were disproportionately targeted during traffic stops.

In response to the Arizona ICE Act, Arizona Democrats are pushing a set of competing bills aimed at protecting undocumented residents. These proposals would limit police inquiries into an individual’s immigration status and restrict the sharing of information about arrestees without a court order. Named the “Immigrant Trust Act,” this legislation seeks to build trust with immigrant communities.

Despite support for these measures among Democrats, they face significant hurdles in the Republican-dominated legislature. Nevertheless, proponents argue that articulating their stance is crucial for demonstrating solidarity with undocumented residents in Arizona.

“We want to show those families that they have advocates in the state Capitol,” said Rep. Cesar Aguilar. His co-sponsor in the Senate, Sen. Analise Ortiz, emphasized that their legislation represents a safer and more inclusive vision for Arizona.

With Governor Katie Hobbs having a history of vetoing discriminatory legislation, the fate of the Arizona ICE Act remains uncertain. Hobbs has consistently expressed that local law enforcement should not be coerced into federal immigration enforcement roles.

Christian Slater, a spokesperson for Hobbs, stated, “Arizonans should decide what’s best for Arizona.” He added that efforts to impose federal oversight would not serve the state’s interests.

Community demonstrations against the Arizona ICE Act occurred outside the legislative buildings, showcasing widespread opposition to policies perceived as anti-immigrant. Protesters shouted slogans calling for the rejection of such lawmakers’ initiatives and carried signs denouncing the legislation.

Activists, including Roberto Reveles, a veteran immigrant rights advocate, drew parallels between the Arizona ICE Act and SB1070, known for its aggressive enforcement tactics. Reveles warned of a potential boycott of Arizona akin to those triggered by past anti-immigrant laws, showcasing the community’s resolve against discriminatory measures.

Organizers emphasized the need for empathy towards immigrants, stressing their role as integral members of society. “We are your neighbors, your friends, your family,” stated Abril Gallardo Cervera, an organizer with LUCHA. Advocates continue to rally, urging lawmakers to acknowledge the contributions and humanity of immigrant communities as the legislative session unfolds.