Michigan Senate Bill SB0968

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 7/30/24
• Refer: 7/30/24

Caption

Law enforcement: other; requirement to enforce federal immigration laws; provide for. Creates new act. TIE BAR WITH: SB 0969'24

Impact

The enactment of SB 968 would significantly alter the responsibilities of local law enforcement agencies by requiring them to verify the immigration status of individuals they lawfully arrest. Moreover, it enforces the immediate transfer of individuals without legal status who are convicted of state crimes to federal custody, which raises questions about the implications for community-policing relations and the potential for racial profiling. This could result in a chilling effect on community members seeking police assistance for fear of deportation.

Summary

Senate Bill 968, also known as the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Support Act, mandates that certain law enforcement agencies in Michigan perform immigration enforcement functions under the direction of federal immigration authorities. This bill emphasizes the creation of a jail enforcement model and a warrant service officer program, aiming to designate specific law enforcement officers to assist in the enforcement of federal immigration laws. Law enforcement agencies are required to establish these programs to receive financial support from the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Support Fund.

Contention

The bill has sparked considerable debate as advocates argue it strengthens immigration enforcement and public safety, while opponents raise concerns about the erosion of trust between communities and law enforcement. Critics fear that this could lead to the over-policing of immigrant communities and exacerbate already strained relations, potentially deterring crime reporting and cooperation with police investigations. Additionally, the requirement for local agencies to collaborate with federal immigration enforcement poses ethical dilemmas surrounding civil rights and local autonomy in governance.