STATEHOUSE (Feb. 21, 2025) – The Indiana House passed State Rep. J.D. Prescott's (R-Union City) legislation to clarify the enforcement of federal immigration laws by local, state and federal law enforcement agencies. The legislation would ensure that governmental bodies and postsecondary institutions adhere to immigration detainer requests and provides additional tools for compliance and enforcement.
House Bill 1531 would include provisions that require governmental bodies to comply with immigration detainer requests, inform individuals of their detention status and provide specific records related to those requests. The bill would also establish immunity for governmental bodies or employees acting in compliance with such detainers and outlines penalties for non-compliance, including potential withholding of state funding.
“Ensuring that Indiana is fully cooperating with federal immigration enforcement is crucial to protecting our communities," Prescott said. “This bill would strengthen our commitment to upholding federal immigration laws while providing clear support and protections for local officials and law enforcement. I am proud to see this important legislation progress to the Senate."
Additionally, the bill would mandate that judges report individuals convicted of felonies or misdemeanors to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and introduces penalties for employers knowingly hiring illegal immigrants.
House Bill 1531 now moves to the Senate for further consideration. For more information, visit iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. J.D. Prescott (R-Union City) represents House District 33,
which includes all of Blackford and Randolph counties,
and portions of Delaware, Henry and Jay counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
PHOTO CAPTION: State Rep. J.D. Prescott (R-Union City) presents his legislation to strengthen immigration laws on Thursday, Feb. 20, 2025, in the House Chamber at the Statehouse. House Bill 1531 would clarify the enforcement of federal immigration laws by local, state and federal law enforcement agencies.
