Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds, known for her strong conservative policies, signed a new law on April 10, enabling Iowa law enforcement to arrest illegal immigrants. This law, Senate File (SF) 2340, set to activate on July 1, aligns with her commitment to stringent border control measures.
The law stipulates it illegal for individuals previously denied entry or deported by federal authorities to reside in Iowa. Exceptions include those attending educational institutions, religious spaces, or seeking healthcare services. This legislation mirrors Texas’ controversial Senate Bill (SB) 4, which has ignited federal legal challenges due to potential conflicts with the Supremacy Clause of the U.S. Constitution.
Federal officials, like Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta, argue that states cannot enforce immigration laws that undermine federal policies. Brian M. Boynton of the Justice Department’s Civil Division emphasized that state actions must align with constitutional mandates and established legal precedents.
Despite potential federal pushbacks, Governor Reynolds asserts that these measures are necessary due to what she perceives as the Biden administration’s lax border controls, which she believes compromise the safety of Iowans. She argues this law is a step towards fulfilling responsibilities she claims the federal government has neglected.
However, the law has stirred apprehension within minority communities in Iowa. Concerns about racial profiling and the practical implications for local law enforcement have surfaced. Des Moines Police Chief Dana Wingert expressed concerns about the feasibility of enforcing this law, citing insufficient resources, which he believes should be a federal prerogative.
