Arizona voters will decide in November whether to give local police the power to arrest illegal immigrants crossing the border, following a ruling by the Arizona Supreme Court that cleared the measure for the ballot. Proposition 314, officially named the Arizona Immigration and Border Law Enforcement Measure, aims to expand state-level authority over immigration enforcement and address other public safety concerns.
The measure would allow state and local law enforcement to arrest and detain individuals who cross the Arizona-Mexico border unlawfully, filling a gap left by federal authorities. The proposal also gives judges the authority to order deportations, streamlining the removal process.
Proposition 314 doesn’t stop at immigration enforcement. It would classify selling fentanyl that leads to someone’s death as a Class 2 felony, carrying up to 10 years in prison. Additionally, it would require the use of the E-Verify system to confirm citizenship before individuals can access financial aid or public welfare programs. Those who provide false information would face felony charges.
The proposal is inspired by Texas’ Senate Bill 4, which allows local law enforcement to arrest and deport illegal immigrants. However, Arizona’s version is seen as more comprehensive, targeting drug trafficking and welfare fraud as well. State Sen. Justine Wadsack (R) described it as “like the Texas bill, only stronger.”
Legal challenges have already emerged, with critics arguing that the measure covers multiple issues. However, Arizona Supreme Court Chief Justice Ann A. Scott Timmer ruled that it complies with the state’s single-subject rule.
The upcoming vote could have broad implications for state-level immigration policies and may set a precedent for other states seeking to enhance their own border enforcement efforts. If passed, Proposition 314 could lead to a significant shift in how Arizona handles illegal immigration, drug enforcement and public welfare fraud.
