Us Congress House Bill HB3407

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/17/23
• Refer: 5/17/23

Caption

Empowering Law Enforcement Act of 2023

Impact

The bill mandates that state and local authorities transfer custody of detained individuals to federal entities within 48 hours post-arrest, ensuring a more rapid handover process. Additionally, it encourages state and local law enforcement agencies to continue their involvement in immigration enforcement, reflecting a shift towards enhanced local collaboration. Proponents argue that this will create a more cohesive framework for immigration enforcement that can address issues of safety and security in communities.

Summary

HB3407, known as the Empowering Law Enforcement Act of 2023, proposes significant enhancements to the enforcement of immigration laws in the United States. It reaffirms the authority of state and local law enforcement to arrest and detain individuals suspected of violating immigration laws, thereby empowering them to act without concerns about being overruled by federal statutes. This legislation is expected to streamline coordination between various law enforcement entities when handling immigration cases.

Contention

Notably, the bill includes provisions for immunity of state law enforcement officers from personal liability when enforcing immigration laws, a measure that raises significant concerns among civil rights advocates. Critics assert that this could lead to increased racial profiling and unjust detentions, as local authorities may feel emboldened to enforce laws more aggressively without accountability. The potential strain on state resources and the possibility of conflicts between state and federal authority further complicate the bill's reception.