STATE LEGISLATION — On June 2, Indiana Governor Mike Brown ceremoniously signed a bill aimed at addressing illegal immigration in the state, authored by State Senator Liz Brown (R-Fort Wayne). This legislation, known as Senate Register Act 76, is designed to bolster Indiana’s efforts against illegal immigration by enhancing state-level tools and fostering collaboration between state and federal law enforcement agencies.
In a statement, Senator Brown emphasized Indiana’s firm stance against illegal immigration, asserting that SEA 76 will empower law enforcement to uphold the law and prevent the state from becoming a refuge for those who violate it. The bill also aims to provide law enforcement with necessary training and resources for effective immigration enforcement.
Senator Brown outlined four integral components of this legislation to deter illegal immigration in Indiana.
Enhancing Law Enforcement Training and Cooperation
SEA 76 mandates that police and government agencies comply with immigration enforcement requests regarding individuals in their custody. It also directs the Indiana Department of Corrections to establish training standards and minimum requirements in county jails to ensure effective collaboration with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Clarification of Sanctuary City and Campus Restrictions
The legislation explicitly prohibits government agencies from imposing any limitations on immigration enforcement by federal, state, or local authorities. Furthermore, it establishes that agencies may be held accountable for violating the sanctuary ban, regardless of whether their actions are deemed “intentional” or “unintentional.”
Prohibition on Employment of Illegal Immigrants
The bill explicitly bars employers from knowingly recruiting, hiring, or employing individuals who are in the country illegally. It also empowers the Indiana Attorney General to pursue legal action against employers suspected of violating this provision.
Ensuring Financial Aid Exclusively for Legally Residing Hoosiers
Additionally, SEA 76 requires the Indiana Department of Family and Social Services to provide an annual report to Congress detailing the number of noncitizens enrolled in or receiving benefits from key welfare programs, including SNAP, TANF, and Medicaid.
Building on her concerns about the Biden administration’s handling of border security, Senator Brown remarked that the challenges stemming from a lack of effective border enforcement — such as the influx of dangerous drugs and heightened security risks — necessitate proactive measures in Indiana. She expressed gratitude to her legislative colleagues, law enforcement, and various stakeholders for their support in advancing the bill, which will take effect on July 1.
