A bill introduced in Wyoming that targets immigrants, particularly those who are undocumented, has caused concern across the state. Senate File 124, also known as the “Illegal Immigration-identify, report, detain and deport” bill, is facing strong opposition from immigrant communities, civil rights groups, and local law enforcement agencies. The bill proposes harsh penalties for anyone helping undocumented immigrants, including a possible five-year prison sentence or a $5,000 fine for transporting or assisting someone they know is undocumented.
The bill’s sponsor, Senator Cheri Steinmetz from Torrington, argues that the bill is necessary to tackle illegal immigration and make the state safer. However, for many people, especially Latino residents of Cheyenne, the bill is seen as an attack on their families and their rights.
A key part of the bill requires local law enforcement to cooperate closely with federal immigration authorities. It would make it illegal to shelter or assist undocumented immigrants in any way. This could affect many people living in Wyoming, even those who are citizens but have undocumented family members. For example, teachers could face jail time for taking undocumented children on school trips or for helping them with basic needs. Many people are scared that they could be punished just for helping their own family members or neighbors.
Alexis Soto, a Cheyenne resident, told lawmakers at a committee meeting that if the bill is passed, she would be worried about helping her undocumented family members. Soto, who was born in the U.S., said her parents came to the country illegally. She expressed concern about how the bill would affect their daily lives, saying it could make them afraid to go to school or church, or even leave their homes.
Many other people also voiced their opposition at the committee meeting. They argued that the bill would encourage racial profiling, with law enforcement being allowed to ask people about their immigration status if they suspect something is wrong. This has led to concerns that people of color, especially Latinos, could be unfairly targeted. Maria Alvarado, another Cheyenne resident, shared her fears of being stopped just because of her appearance. She said that the bill would give law enforcement the ability to harass and profile families based on how they look.
Despite these concerns, the bill has made it through a committee vote with several amendments. Lawmakers removed some parts of the bill, including the provision that would have required law enforcement to interrogate everyone they stop about their immigration status. They also struck out language that would have prevented undocumented immigrants from accessing public services like healthcare. But even with these changes, many people are still worried about the bill’s potential impact on immigrant communities.
The bill also allows law enforcement officers to question people about their citizenship if they have a “reasonable suspicion” that a person may be in the country illegally. This vague language could make it easier for law enforcement to stop and question people based on their appearance or background, further increasing fears of racial profiling.
The Wyoming Association of Sheriffs and Chiefs of Police has expressed cautious support for the bill after the amendments were made. While some sheriffs are already working with federal immigration agencies, they have expressed concern about the additional workload and the strain it could put on local law enforcement. They also worry that the federal government may not want to sign agreements with all 23 counties in Wyoming.
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Wyoming has already challenged the bill’s constitutionality. Antonio Serrano, the ACLU’s advocacy director, said the bill would harm Wyoming’s residents and criminalize those who interact with immigrants. He added that the bill would do little to make Wyoming a safer place and instead create unnecessary division and fear.
Supporters of the bill argue that it will help to reduce illegal immigration and protect the state’s resources. Senator Lynn Hutchings, one of the bill’s supporters, said that people who are not breaking the law should have nothing to fear. But many opponents of the bill, like Soto, argue that the immigration process is difficult and slow, and that many immigrants live in fear of being deported even after following all the rules.
The bill now moves to the Senate floor for further debate, where it could still be amended or even rejected. If it passes the Senate, it will then go to the House for consideration. Lawmakers in Wyoming are continuing to wrestle with the balance between enforcing immigration laws and protecting the rights of immigrant families.
(Source : newsbreak.com)
