MONTGOMERY — The House of Representatives passed the so-called Laken Riley Act, sponsored by State Rep. Ernie Yarbrough (R-Trinity), by a 75-1 vote on Tuesday.
The legislation (HB13), which passed the House Judiciary Committee earlier in the session, would allow state-based law enforcement to enter into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with federal law enforcement on a voluntary basis.
"My campaign slogan is make Alabama local again," Yarbrough said to reporters following the bill's passage. "So, I firmly believe that our local rights, liberties, responsibilities are the key, the tip of the spear, as it were, to solving the problems that we face."
He added, "When it comes to immigration, particularly people who are here illegally committing crimes beyond just the status of being in our country improperly, I don't think anybody wants anyone here illegally who are committing crimes."
The bill now heads to the Senate, where it is expected to be carried by State Sen. Sam Givhan (R-Huntsville).
Jeff Poor is the editor-in-chief of 1819 News and host of "The Jeff Poor Show," heard Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-noon on Mobile's FM Talk 106.5. To connect or comment, email [email protected] or follow him on Twitter @jeff_poor.
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