GOP Proposal Sparks Controversy: Arizona Police to Partner with ICE for Enhanced Deportation Authority

Democratic lawmakers and immigrant rights advocates gathered at the Arizona state Capitol Monday to contest a proposed Republican bill mandating police cooperation with federal immigration authorities. This legislation, known as the Arizona ICE Act, seeks to align local law enforcement with federal immigration enforcement policies.

The Arizona ICE Act requires all state police departments to actively support federal immigration laws and enter into 287(g) agreements by next year. These agreements allow local police to receive training from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to carry out immigration enforcement, effectively broadening the reach of federal officials and increasing potential deportations.

At present, five law enforcement agencies in Arizona are involved in such agreements. Critics argue these measures foster discrimination, echoing findings from a 2011 Justice Department investigation that revealed racial profiling by the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office under Joe Arpaio. This environment could endanger community relations, particularly among Latino populations.

Republican lawmakers assert that their proposals reflect a voter mandate for stricter immigration policies, citing last year’s approval of Prop. 314, which criminalizes unauthorized border crossings. Senate President Warren Petersen claims a significant portion of Arizonans supports a robust approach to immigration enforcement.

Conversely, Democrats oppose the Arizona ICE Act and propose their own “Immigrant Trust Act,” which would protect undocumented individuals from inquiries about their legal status. This legislation aims to prevent local law enforcement from sharing custody information unless a court order is in place.

Despite the Democrats’ efforts, their initiatives face an uphill battle within the Republican-controlled legislature. However, they affirm the importance of demonstrating support for vulnerable communities in the state. Legislators advocate that the fear of deportation prevents families from reporting crimes, ultimately undermining public safety.

While the viability of the Arizona ICE Act remains uncertain, it is unlikely to overcome opposition from Governor Katie Hobbs, who has vetoed similar initiatives in the past. Hobbs focuses on community support and local law enforcement funding rather than aggressive federal partnerships.

Outside the Capitol, a diverse group of protestors rallied against the Arizona ICE Act. Chants of “No hate, no fear! Immigrants are welcome here!” echoed through the legislative complex, signaling strong community resistance to the proposed legislation.

Activist Roberto Reveles highlighted historical parallels between the Arizona ICE Act and the controversial SB1070 law, which invited widespread backlash and economic boycotts. He urged for renewed action against anti-immigrant legislation, signaling potential consequences for lawmakers advocating such measures.

Amid rising tensions regarding immigration policies, advocates emphasize the need for compassion and recognition of immigrants as integral parts of the Arizona community. “We are your neighbors, your friends, your family,” said organizer Abril Gallardo Cervera, urging support for the rights and dignity of all individuals in the state.