State Immigration Enforcement Act

# State Immigration Enforcement Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would allow states and local governments to create and enforce their own immigration laws, something currently limited by federal law. Specifically, it would let states penalize employers who hire undocumented workers—a power that federal law currently reserves for the federal government. Any state or local penalties could not be stricter than existing federal penalties. **Who It Affects** The bill would primarily affect employers, undocumented immigrants, state and local governments, and immigration enforcement agencies.

States like Arizona (the sponsor's home state) have sought greater immigration enforcement authority, so they would likely be among the most impacted if the bill passes. **Current Status** The bill is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but not yet voted on by the full House of Representatives. It was sponsored by Representative Andy Biggs, a Republican from Arizona. The bill reflects ongoing debates about whether immigration enforcement should remain primarily a federal responsibility or be shared with state and local governments.