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HB 278

Excise tax; rooms, lodgings, and accommodations; change certain definitions

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Shaw Blackmon and 4 co-sponsors

HB 278 mandates peace officers to check and report immigration status during lawful stops, enhancing local enforcement of federal immigration laws.

House Second Readers
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Bill Summary · HB 278

Summary of HB 278: Require Peace Officer to Check and Report Immigration Status During Lawful Stop

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HB 278
Title: Require peace officer to check and report immigration status during lawful stop
Status: Chapter Number Assigned
Introduced: December 13, 2024
Classification: Bill
Subject: Federal Government, Law Enforcement (also related to Criminal Procedure)

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of HB 278 is to mandate that peace officers check and report the immigration status of individuals during lawful stops. This legislation aims to enhance law enforcement's ability to address immigration-related issues and ensure compliance with federal immigration laws.

Key Provisions

  • Mandatory Checks: Peace officers are required to verify the immigration status of individuals they encounter during lawful stops, which may include traffic stops, detentions, or other interactions.
  • Reporting Requirements: Officers must report the immigration status findings to the appropriate federal authorities, thereby facilitating the enforcement of immigration laws.
  • Training and Guidelines: The bill may include provisions for training law enforcement personnel on how to conduct these checks and handle sensitive information related to immigration status.

Affected Parties

  • Law Enforcement Agencies: Police departments and other law enforcement agencies will need to implement new protocols for checking immigration status.
  • Individuals Stopped by Police: The bill directly affects individuals who are stopped by peace officers, as their immigration status will be verified and reported.
  • Federal Immigration Authorities: The bill establishes a direct line of communication between local law enforcement and federal immigration agencies.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: December 13, 2024
  • Hearing in House Judiciary: January 23, 2025
  • Passed in House: February 12, 2025
  • Sent to Senate: February 12, 2025
  • Passed in Senate: April 1, 2025
  • Signed by Governor: April 16, 2025
  • Chapter Number Assigned: April 17, 2025

Conclusion

HB 278 represents a significant shift in how law enforcement interacts with immigration issues during routine stops. By requiring peace officers to check and report immigration status, the bill aims to strengthen the enforcement of immigration laws at the local level. The implementation of this legislation will necessitate changes in training and operational procedures for law enforcement agencies, impacting both officers and the communities they serve.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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