ACLU of MS Statement on SB 2114

JACKSON, Miss - Yesterday, SB 2114, a bill that proposes a new state crime, making illegal entry into Mississippi a felony, passed committee. If convicted, undocumented individuals, even those with no criminal history, would spend no less than two years in a state prison. The bill also calls for a mandate requiring all Mississippi sheriff departments to sign 287 (g) agreements.

The ACLU of Mississippi has issued the following statement:

The effects of a potential law like SB 2114 would be devastating, not only for undocumented immigrants but for all Mississippians. The new felony statute is vague and gives no mention of what a police officer should look for to question someone on how they entered Mississippi and no probable cause standard for an arrest. This will undoubtedly result in racial profiling and the detention of citizens and people with legal status. SB 2114 could even put Mississippians at risk of being required to "show their papers" during routine interactions with law enforcement.

Forcing local law enforcement to work for ICE would be a drain on local resources, resources that are already scarce. In addition, Mississippi taxpayers will be forced to foot the bill when the enforcement of this law leads to constitutional rights violations, including lawsuits for the wrongful detainment of US citizens.

SB 2114 would result in an erosion of public safety. Numerous studies have shown people are less likely to come forward to seek police protection when they know calling 911 could result in their family member or friend being deported. At a time when trust in law enforcement is at an all-time low, this makes communities less safe.

To view this press release online, click here.