Bill > HB26

This bill enacts the Protecting Ohio Communities Act, which requires state and local authorities to cooperate fully with federal immigration enforcement efforts. The bill mandates that law enforcement agencies participate in federal immigration verification programs, report arrestees who may be unlawfully present in the United States, and detain individuals at federal request. Local government entities administering public benefits must verify the immigration status of applicants using federal verification systems. The bill imposes significant financial penalties on local jurisdictions that do not comply, including reducing or withholding local government fund distributions by 10%. Specifically, if a local authority is found to be non-compliant with the immigration cooperation requirements, the state will reduce its funding until it comes into compliance. The legislation declares that "sanctuary" policies protecting undocumented immigrants are contrary to federal law and the state's interests, and frames the act as necessary for public safety. The bill includes an emergency clause, meaning it will take effect immediately upon passage, and applies to counties, townships, municipalities, and their respective law enforcement agencies across Ohio. The stated purpose is to ensure consistent and mandatory cooperation with federal immigration authorities.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/hb26