House Bill 1484 would form the Mississippi Illegal Alien Certified Bounty Hunter Program.
US Immigration and Customs Enforcement's special agent preparing to arrest alleged immigration violators at Fresh Mark, Salem, June 19, 2018. DeSoto County, Mississippi District Attorney Matthew Barton on Wednesday announced his support for a bill to reward bounty hunters for helping deport illegal migrants.
House Bill 1484, sponsored by state Rep. Justin Keen, R-District 6, would form the Mississippi Illegal Alien Certified Bounty Hunter Program. That group would “certify applicants to the program as certified bounty hunters for purposes of finding and detaining illegal aliens in this state.” Bounty hunters who are approved through the program could earn up to $1,000 for each successful deportation they assist. These funds would be appropriated by the state’s General Assembly, according to the legislation. “This program is a vital step in assisting our law enforcement agencies to better enforce immigration laws and ensure that those in this country unlawfully are sent back to their country of origin,” Barton said. “When President Trump took office this week, he immediately recognized the emergency at our borders, rolling out executive orders to combat illegal immigration and cartels. This legislation builds upon that foundation, empowering local leaders and communities to support federal efforts in protecting our citizens.” The bill would also establish the crime of illegal trespass by an illegal alien, which would be a felony. Those convicted of the offense would be permanently barred from registering to vote, acquiring a drivers license, applying for aid and becoming a resident in the state. “This legislation is about keeping Mississippi communities safe,” Rep. Keen said. “We’ve seen firsthand the danger posed by bad actors and violent criminals who enter this country illegally, like the innocent life of Laken Riley. President Trump’s administration has made it clear that deporting illegal immigrants is a priority, and we are proud to do our part here in Mississippi to help support his agenda and protect our citizens.”A similar proposal in Missouri by state Sen.-elect David Gregory, R-District 15, drew Nazi comparisons from a local attorney in December. “As a civil rights attorney that’s great for me,” Attorney Javad Khazaeli said of the bill. “It’ll take one week for a Puerto Rican who has been harassed. This is a classic demanding papers, you must have your papers everywhere.”That bill is scheduled for a hearing in the Missouri Senate's Transportation, Infrastructure and Public Safety Committee next week.Jackson Walker on X at @_jlwalker_ for the latest trending national news. Have a news tip? Send it to jacwalker@sbgtv.com.
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