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Bill

Bill

HR 218

State Immigration Enforcement Act

119th Congress Introduced by Andy Biggs and 3 co-sponsors

HR 218 authorizes states to enforce federal immigration laws under DHS agreements, shifting enforcement capacity from federal to state authorities nationwide.

Introduced in House
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 218

Legislative bill overview

HR 218 authorizes individual states to enforce federal immigration laws and establishes a framework allowing states to enter into agreements with the federal government to conduct immigration enforcement activities. The bill would grant states greater operational authority in immigration enforcement while maintaining federal oversight through the Department of Homeland Security.

Why is this important

This addresses a longstanding debate about the role of state versus federal authority in immigration enforcement. Currently, immigration enforcement is primarily a federal responsibility, and states have limited direct enforcement powers. This bill would significantly shift enforcement capacity by leveraging state resources, potentially affecting how immigration laws are implemented across the country and influencing state-federal relations.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional federalism questions: Critics argue immigration is explicitly a federal power under the Constitution, while supporters contend states have concurrent authority to address immigration within their borders
  • Enforcement disparities: Different states enforcing federal law differently could create inconsistent outcomes and potentially conflict with federal enforcement priorities or create "sanctuary state" alternatives
  • Resource and liability concerns: Unclear who bears financial costs for state enforcement, potential liability for wrongful enforcement actions, and questions about adequate federal training and oversight standards

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

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