(Statehouse) – Legislation authored by State Rep. Garrett Bascom (R-Lawrenceburg) that calls for strengthening immigration enforcement in Indiana passed the legislature and is headed to the governor’s desk for consideration.
House Enrolled Act 1393 would require jail or detention center officials to notify a county sheriff if there is probable cause to suspect an arrestee is in the country illegally.
The sheriff would then be required to notify federal authorities. The bill would apply to those arrested for a misdemeanor or felony offense.
“This bill is an important step in helping enforce our immigration laws. It ensures law enforcement officers are working together to identify bad actors and keep our communities safe,” Bascom said. “This legislation could work in tandem with recent federal laws, including the Laken Riley Act, which recently passed through Congress. By sharing information, both state and federal law enforcement officials can coordinate to potentially remove bad actors from Indiana communities.”
One of the bill’s sponsors in the Senate was State Sen. Randy Maxwell (R-Guilford).
Click here to learn more about the bill and other legislation passed during this year’s session.
