Arizona voters will decide in November whether local and state police should be empowered to arrest illegal border crossers, as the Arizona Supreme Court ruled this week that Proposition 314 can be placed on the ballot. The measure, which would make unlawful entry into the state a crime enforceable by local law enforcement, is part of a broader effort to strengthen state-level immigration control amid federal inaction.
If passed, Proposition 314 would also address other pressing issues like fentanyl trafficking and public welfare fraud. The measure proposes a Class 2 felony charge for anyone who sells fentanyl leading to another person’s death, which could carry a sentence of up to 10 years. Additionally, it would require the use of the E-Verify program to determine citizenship status before individuals can access financial aid or public welfare. Those caught submitting fraudulent documents for benefits or employment could face a Class 6 felony charge.
The proposal is modeled after Texas’ Senate Bill 4, which permits local authorities to arrest and deport illegal immigrants but has faced legal challenges from the Biden administration. Arizona’s measure, however, goes further, according to State Sen. Justine Wadsack (R), who described it as “like the Texas bill, only stronger.”
Opponents of Proposition 314 attempted to keep it off the ballot, arguing that it violates the state’s single-subject rule by addressing multiple issues at once. However, the Arizona Supreme Court disagreed, allowing the measure to proceed.
With border security a key issue for many Arizona voters, the outcome of this vote could have significant implications not only for the state but for national immigration policy. Should Proposition 314 pass, it could pave the way for other states to take a more aggressive stance on border enforcement, especially as federal efforts remain mired in controversy.
