(INDIANAPOLIS) - A Republican-backed immigration enforcement bill that expands cooperation between Indiana state and local agencies and federal immigration authorities has cleared the Indiana Senate and now moves to the House.
The Indiana Capital Chronicle reports that Senate Bill 76 passed the Senate on a 37-7 party-line vote, with all Democrats voting against the measure. The bill is authored by Sen. Liz Brown, R-Fort Wayne.
The legislation requires local law enforcement agencies and county jails to comply with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detainer requests. Under the bill, agencies would be required to notify judges overseeing bail decisions when a detainee is subject to an ICE detainer and document that information in case files. Judges would also be required to ensure detainers are reflected in court records.
Senate Bill 76 directs the Indiana Department of Correction to establish uniform, statewide rules governing how county jails cooperate with ICE. It also provides an affirmative defense for law enforcement officers who complete department-approved training and are sued civilly for actions taken while complying with the law.
The bill authorizes the governor to withhold state grants or funding for up to one year from state or local entities found to be in violation of the detainer requirements. It further strengthens prohibitions against state or local governments, including public colleges and universities, adopting policies that restrict enforcement of federal immigration law.
Additional provisions in the bill target employers who knowingly hire unauthorized workers, require state agencies to submit immigration-related reports to lawmakers, and expand the state's authority to pursue nuisance actions related to human trafficking, allowing recovery of investigative and court costs.
Supporters argue the bill ensures law enforcement agencies can carry out their duties consistently and prevents local governments from obstructing federal immigration enforcement. Opponents contend the measure could strain overcrowded county jails, divert law enforcement resources and undermine trust between police and immigrant communities.
Debate over the bill unfolded amid heightened national scrutiny of ICE operations, including recent incidents in Minnesota that were referenced during Senate discussions.
Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita has criticized the legislation as insufficiently strong, though bill sponsors say it provides necessary enforcement tools while protecting law enforcement officers acting within the law.
Senate Bill 76 now heads to the Indiana House for further consideration.