Bill > SB137

This bill creates a new criminal offense called "improper entry by an alien" for individuals who enter the state in violation of federal immigration law (8 U.S.C. Section 1325). The offense carries a substantial fine of $100,000 and mandates an order of removal from the state. The removal order must specify the method of transportation to a port of entry and identify the law enforcement agency responsible for monitoring compliance. Law enforcement officers are authorized to arrest or detain individuals upon probable cause of violating this provision. The bill allows courts the discretion to dismiss criminal charges in favor of issuing a removal order. Additionally, the bill expands the definition of "criminal activity" in existing law to include this new immigration-related offense, which could potentially impact civil and criminal proceedings related to property seizure and other legal actions. The provisions are designed to create a state-level mechanism for addressing unauthorized immigration, complementing federal immigration enforcement.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=153