Idaho Governor Celebrates Immigration Bill Amid ACLU Lawsuit

Idaho Governor Brad Little held a ceremonial signing for House Bill 83, which makes illegal entry and reentry of undocumented immigrants a state-level crime, despite a federal judge temporarily blocking its enforcement following a lawsuit by the ACLU of Idaho. During a meeting with legislators and law enforcement, Little expressed strong support for President Trump's immigration policies and highlighted the bill's aim to enhance local and state law enforcement's ability to detain individuals illegally present in the country if they have committed additional crimes. The bill, also known as the Border Security and Immigration Enforcement Act, aims to bolster cooperation with federal authorities and provide law enforcement access to immigration status information. The ACLU's lawsuit has named several plaintiffs, arguing against the law's enforcement. Governor Little remains optimistic about the bill's future, despite expected legal challenges, noting similar legislation in Texas also faced scrutiny. Little emphasized that the bill reflects a mandate from the American public for stricter immigration enforcement.