Grand Canyon Times

Arizona Senate Republicans have advanced legislation aimed at addressing border-related crimes and supporting Texas' initiatives to manage immigration issues. The passage of SCR 1042 by the Arizona Senate Republicans signifies their backing for Texas Governor Greg Abbott's efforts to address what they describe as a crisis stemming from the Biden Administration's policies on border security. They urge Arizona Governor Hobbs to join 25 other governors in supporting state-led defense measures.

Senator Bolick, who sponsored the bill, expressed concerns over federal inaction, stating, "If the Biden Administration didn't abandon its constitutional duty to protect Americans by refusing to secure our southern border, there wouldn't be a need for SCR1042." Bolick pointed out that many individuals crossing the border have not been vetted, leading to an increase in border-related crimes and costs borne by taxpayers. He cited USASpending.gov data as evidence of federal funds indirectly supporting illegal immigration through aid distributed by international organizations.

In addition to SCR 1042, Senate Republicans passed SB 1608, introduced by Senator Justine Wadsack. This bill classifies using electronic devices for human smuggling as a class 2 felony. Wadsack highlighted the role of social media platforms in facilitating smuggling operations: "Human smuggling is at an all-time high... The use of social media platforms to carry out these crimes has grown exponentially."

All Senate Democrats opposed both pieces of legislation.

For further details, contact Kim Quintero, Director of Communications for the Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus.