The Wisconsin State Assembly has passed Assembly Bill 24 (AB-24), a Republican-backed measure requiring county jails to verify the U.S. citizenship of individuals held on felony charges. If a suspect’s immigration status cannot be confirmed, county sheriffs must notify Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
State Rep. Brent Jacobson (R-Mosinee), who supported the bill, argued that it strengthens public safety. “The bill, which I proudly voted for today, should not be controversial,” said Jacobson. “Most sheriffs already work with ICE to keep Wisconsinites safe. It’s disappointing that Democrats prioritized partisanship over public safety of their constituents today and voted against this legislation.”
He went on to indicate, “Assembly Democrats spoke quite a bit today about cost. It is shameful that the only government spending my colleagues across the aisle seem to oppose is for protecting Wisconsinites from being victimized. There are too many horror stories of dangerous illegal aliens being let back onto our streets to put our communities at risk. I hope my colleagues will reconsider their radical, partisan opposition to this bill.”
Opposition to AB-24 came from Dane County Sheriff Kalvin Barrett, who warned of potential negative impacts on law enforcement operations. “This bill undermines local authority and could have serious consequences for effective law enforcement,” Barrett stated, calling it an unfunded mandate that would burden taxpayers.
Waupaca County Sheriff Tim Wilz has indicated that he will cooperate with ICE.
The bill now heads to the Wisconsin State Senate for consideration. If passed, it could significantly change how local law enforcement handles noncitizen felony suspects in county jails.
Related links