STATEHOUSE (Feb. 13, 2026) – The Indiana House of Representatives advanced legislation, co-sponsored by State Rep. Michelle Davis (R-Whiteland), strengthening coordination among federal, state and local officials in enforcing immigration laws.
Senate Bill 76 promotes a unified approach to immigration enforcement by ensuring local units of government comply with federal immigration detainer requests. It also prohibits governmental bodies from limiting or restricting enforcement of federal immigration law.
"Public safety depends on cooperation at every level of government," Davis said. "When federal, state and local officials work together, we can better enforce the law, protect our communities, secure our borders and ensure our resources are being used effectively."
Under the bill, governmental bodies that have custody of an individual subject to an immigration detainer request must comply with the request, record the detainer in the individual’s case file and notify the judge responsible for determining bail. Judges who receive notice must ensure the detainer is reflected in the court record. The measure also provides immunity to governmental entities and employees acting in compliance with detainer requests as long as their actions do not violate federal or state law.
If the attorney general determines probable cause exists that a governmental entity failed to comply with certain immigration enforcement requirements, their office may bring a court action, impose civil penalties and seek other necessary relief. The attorney general may also withhold state funding for up to one year for noncompliance.
The legislation further prohibits employers from knowingly or intentionally recruiting, hiring or continuing to employ unauthorized aliens in Indiana. It authorizes the attorney general to pursue enforcement actions against employers who violate the law and protects employees from retaliation for cooperating with investigations. The bill also expands tools to address labor trafficking and indecent nuisances tied to human trafficking.
Additionally, the measure updates reporting requirements and directs state agencies to provide training and status updates related to immigration enforcement and jail standards.
SB 76 now returns to the Senate for final consideration in its amended form. To learn more and watch session and committee meetings, visit iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Michelle Davis (R-Whiteland) represents House District 58,
which includes a portion of Johnson County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
