Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB24

Introduced
2/12/25  
Refer
2/12/25  
Report Pass
3/11/25  
Refer
3/11/25  
Engrossed
3/18/25  
Refer
3/19/25  
Enrolled
3/26/26  

Caption

County sheriff assistance with certain federal immigration functions. (FE)

Impact

The enactment of AB24 implies a notable shift in local law enforcement's approach to immigration. By integrating verification processes into jail procedures, this bill aims to ensure compliance with federal immigration regulations. Non-compliance by sheriffs could result in a significant penalty: a reduction of 15 percent in shared revenue payments to the county from the Department of Revenue for the subsequent year. Additionally, sheriffs must maintain records of individuals who are verified as unlawfully present, detailing the types of offenses they have committed, which will be reported to the Department of Justice semi-annually.

Summary

Assembly Bill 24 introduces significant changes to the responsibilities of county sheriffs regarding individuals held in jails for felony offenses. Specifically, the bill mandates that sheriffs must verify the legal presence status of individuals upon their confinement. This involves requiring proof of lawful presence from these individuals, utilizing specific documentation outlined in the bill. If unable to verify an individual's status, sheriffs are required to notify the federal Department of Homeland Security promptly. This aligns with federal immigration enforcement measures, representing a direct interaction between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities.

Contention

While supporters of AB24 argue that it will help enforce immigration laws and maintain public safety, critics voice concerns regarding its implications for civil rights and the potential for increased racial profiling. The requirement for sheriffs to confront immigration status may deter individuals from engaging with law enforcement, fearing repercussions. Moreover, the fiscal implications of reduced funding may strain resources within local law enforcement, complicating their operations and community relations. Furthermore, the emphasis on compliance with federal warrants and detainers raises questions about local autonomy vis-à-vis federal immigration policy.

Companion Bills

WI SB57

Crossfiled County sheriff assistance with certain federal immigration functions. (FE)

Previously Filed As

WI SB57

County sheriff assistance with certain federal immigration functions. (FE)

WI SB8

Relating to agreements between certain sheriffs and the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement to enforce federal immigration law and a grant program to cover the costs of implementing those agreements.

WI SB872

County sheriffs; authorizing sheriffs to work in tandem with certain federal agencies. Effective date.

WI SB872

County sheriffs; authorizing sheriffs to work in tandem with certain federal agencies. Effective date.

WI H5313

Eliminate Illegal Immigration Without Assistance from Paramilitary Thugs Act

WI SB2114

Immigration; criminalize illegal entry and require cooperation with federal authorities.

WI SB658

Relating to agreements between sheriffs and the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement to enforce federal immigration law.

WI HB5580

Relating to agreements between sheriffs and the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement to enforce federal immigration law.

WI SB62

America First ActThis bill limits the eligibility of certain non-U.S. nationals (aliens under federal law) for various federal benefits and grants, makes permanent the child tax credit increase, and requires individuals to provide evidence of satisfactory immigration status prior to receiving specified benefits.The bill prohibits asylees, parolees, and individuals withheld from removal from receiving certain federal benefits, including Medicaid, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP), and Supplemental Security Income. The bill further restricts on the basis of immigration status benefits under federal health programs such as Medicare, emergency disaster relief, housing assistance, food assistance, early childhood assistance, student aid, and Community Development Block Grants.The bill also makes permanent the increase in the child tax credit set to expire at the end of 2025. In addition, this tax credit and the earned income tax credit are not available to asylees, parolees, individuals granted temporary protected status, individuals withheld from removal, individuals granted deferred action for childhood arrivals (DACA) status, and non-U.S. nationals with employment-based immigrant visas.Federal aid is reduced for elementary and secondary education by 50% annually to jurisdictions that do not assist federal immigration enforcement actions (deemed sanctuary jurisdictions under the bill).The bill also removes statutory exemptions for Haitian entrants that allows such entrants to receive various aid.Certain benefits are prohibited, including Medicaid and SNAP, until an applicant’s satisfactory immigration status is proved.The bill prohibits tax-exempt 501(c)(3) charitable organizations from using federal funds to support certain non-U.S. nationals.

WI HB2257

Relating to required agreements between county sheriffs and the United States to enforce federal immigration law.

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