Missouri’s new bill offers $1,000 bounty for turning in illegal aliens, sparking fierce debate over civil liberties and border security.
It’s a great idea – but will Trump go for it?
At a Glance
- Missouri Senate Bill 72 proposes a $1,000 bounty for reporting illegal aliens
- The bill creates a state-level crime of trespass by illegal aliens, punishable by life imprisonment
- It establishes a “Missouri Illegal Alien Certified Bounty Hunter Program”
- Critics warn of potential discrimination and civil rights violations
- The bill aims to restrict illegal aliens’ access to various state benefits and rights
Missouri Takes Bold Stance on Illegal Immigration
Missouri state Senator-elect David Gregory (R) has pre-filed Senate Bill 72, a controversial piece of legislation that aims to radically change how the state handles illegal immigration. The bill’s most contentious provision offers a $1,000 bounty to individuals who report illegal aliens that are subsequently arrested. This aggressive approach to immigration enforcement has ignited a fierce debate about the balance between border security and civil liberties.
The proposed law would create a state-level crime of trespass by an illegal alien, punishable by life imprisonment without parole. This severe penalty underscores the bill’s hardline stance on unauthorized entry and residence in Missouri. The legislation also aims to detain illegal aliens until federal deportation or release by the Parole Board, which would be tasked with vetting and potentially releasing asylum seekers or those not deemed a threat.
People who are undocumented are still people. They are mothers and fathers, daughters and sons, sisters and brothers. Just like you and me. https://t.co/XufQSzImEI
— olivia (@oliviadowlerr) December 7, 2024
Restrictions on Rights and Benefits
Senate Bill 72 goes beyond criminalizing illegal presence in the state. It seeks to prohibit illegal aliens from voting, obtaining driver’s licenses, receiving taxpayer-funded benefits, or becoming state residents in Missouri. These provisions aim to discourage illegal immigration by limiting access to essential services and civic participation.
“Let’s do this right to protect our people, because immigration is good; illegal immigration is bad,” Missouri state Senator-elect David Gregory said.
To enforce these measures, the bill proposes establishing a reporting mechanism for residents to report illegal aliens, with the $1,000 reward offered for reports leading to arrests. This citizen-driven enforcement strategy has raised concerns about potential abuse and the creation of a climate of suspicion within communities.
Perhaps the most controversial aspect of Senate Bill 72 is the proposed “Missouri Illegal Alien Certified Bounty Hunter Program.” This initiative would allow certified individuals to apprehend illegal aliens, effectively privatizing some aspects of immigration enforcement. Critics argue that this could lead to dangerous situations and potential civil rights violations.
State Senator Brian Williams (D) has voiced strong opposition to the bill, suggesting it could lead to widespread discrimination and is designed more to attract media attention than to solve real issues. His concerns reflect a broader worry that the legislation could create a hostile environment for all immigrants, regardless of their legal status.
It’s the kind of policy that Americans concerned with rising illegal immigration are bound to support…but will Trump adopt the policy?
