Utah is considering a bill, HB226, that would increase the sentence for class A misdemeanors by just one day, making immigrants convicted of minor offenses like marijuana possession or theft eligible for immediate deportation. The bill would also require law enforcement to coordinate with ICE and dissolve nonprofits that transport unauthorized immigrants into the state.
Supporters argue that the bill enhances public safety and aligns with Trump administration goals, while critics see it as unfairly targeting immigrants and potentially leading to family separations. The bill is part of a larger package of immigration-related legislation introduced by House Republicans.
While some sheriffs in Utah already notify ICE about immigrants in their custody, the bill aims to codify these practices and ensure that immigrants convicted of crimes are transferred to ICE. Critics argue that the bill’s focus on immigration status could lead to racial profiling and discourage witnesses from coming forward.
Other immigration-related bills being considered in Utah include measures related to English learners, drug trafficking, health insurance, firearm ownership, employer verification, and enhanced penalties for unlawful reentry into the country.
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