MONTGOMERY — Multiple bills seeking to combat illegal immigration passed the Senate County and Municipal Government committee on Wednesday.
Senate Bill 77 by State Sen. April Weaver (R-Brierfield) would establish a fee of $7.50 on international electronic wire transfers plus 1.5% of the amount over $500. The fees would be deposited in the Sheriffs' Immigration Enforcement and Detainer Fund in the State Treasury to fund sheriffs for costs and expenses related to enforcing immigration laws and housing violators of immigration laws. Taxpayers would get a tax credit against income taxes in the amount of all international electronic wire transfer fees paid by the customer.
"Alabamians have made it clear: we need secure borders and safer communities. Senate Republicans wasted no time in moving strong, conservative legislation to protect our families and keep our neighborhoods safe. This is just the first of many steps our Caucus will take to defend our families, secure our borders, and uphold Alabama's values." Senate Majority Leader Steve Livingston (R-Scottsboro) said in a statement to 1819 News on Wednesday.
Senate Bill 66 by State Sen. Lance Bell (R-Pell City) would require law enforcement agencies to collect fingerprints and DNA from any illegal alien in the agency's custody and submit the fingerprints and DNA for testing or cataloging.
Senate Bill 53 by State Sen. Wes Kitchens (R-Arab) would create the new crime of concealing an illegal alien and human smuggling.
Senate Bill 55 by State Sen. Chris Elliott (R-Josephine) would invalidate the use of any driver's license that explicitly indicates it was issued to an individual who did not exercise the option of providing proof of lawful presence in the United States when obtaining the license. The bill would also prevent a nonresident from qualifying for an exemption to the Alabama driver's license requirement if the nonresident's license explicitly indicates that it was issued to an individual who did not exercise the option of providing proof of lawful presence in the United States when obtaining the license.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email caleb.taylor@1819News.com.
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