Bill > AB24

This bill requires county sheriffs in Wisconsin to take specific actions related to immigration status verification for individuals confined in jail for felony offenses. When an individual is in jail for a felony, the sheriff must request proof of lawful presence in the United States, with acceptable documentation including passports, birth records, naturalization certificates, permanent resident cards, visas, and other specific forms of identification. If the sheriff cannot verify the individual's legal status, they must immediately inform the federal Department of Homeland Security. Additionally, if the sheriff receives a federal detainer and administrative warrant for an individual in jail, they must comply with the request and seek federal reimbursement for associated costs. The bill mandates that sheriffs annually certify their compliance and maintain records of individuals verified as unlawfully present, including the types of crimes for which they were confined. Starting in January 2027, the Department of Justice will submit reports to legislative committees with this data. As an enforcement mechanism, the bill stipulates that counties whose sheriffs fail to meet these requirements will have their state payments reduced by 15% in the following year, and law enforcement agencies are protected from criminal or civil liability for actions taken under these provisions.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2025/proposals/reg/asm/bill/ab24