Arizona Senate Passes Ballot Measure Allowing Arrests of Illegal Immigrants

Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs, a Democrat, has criticized the Senate’s passage of HCR2060 and warned that it could harm businesses in the state.

A sign warning of smuggling and illegal immigration stands in the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument near U.S.-Mexico border in Lukeville, Arizona, on December 08, 2023. John Moore/Getty Images

The Arizona Senate approved on Wednesday a proposed ballot measure that would make it a state crime to enter Arizona’s southern border from anywhere outside of an official port of entry.

The ballot measure, House Concurrent Resolution 2060, was approved on a 16-13 party-line vote on May 22. It would grant local law enforcement officers the authority to arrest illegal immigrants.