Virginia Governor Advocates Strong Partnership with ICE to Enhance Immigration Enforcement

Virginia Governor Advocates Strong Partnership with ICE to Enhance Immigration Enforcement

Virginia has joined a select group of states, primarily governed by the Republican Party, that are pressuring local law enforcement to collaborate closely with federal agencies for the deportation of undocumented immigrants. This latest development follows a growing trend where state governments are taking a more proactive stance on immigration enforcement.

On Tuesday, Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin announced Executive Order 47. This order compels state law enforcement and correctional agencies to formalize agreements with the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency, widely known as ICE. The aim is to ensure what Youngkin describes as ‘full cooperation’ in identifying and deporting undocumented immigrants residing within the state.

In his announcement, Youngkin referred to the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, which empowers state and local law enforcement to enter into formal agreements with federal authorities. These agreements effectively allow state officers to carry out certain actions in support of federal immigration enforcement efforts.

Youngkin stated, “Dangerous criminal illegal immigrants should not be let back into our communities to assault, rape and murder. They should be sent back where they came from.” His remarks underscore the intention behind the executive order, which is aimed at enhancing public safety.

As Virginia implements this order, it is producing a ripple effect similar to that seen in other states. For instance, Tennessee has focused its initiatives more narrowly on undocumented immigrants who have committed crimes. Conversely, Virginia’s strategy is broader, instructing law enforcement to assist in the apprehension and deportation of all undocumented immigrants.

The new order calls for the Virginia State Police to engage in a 287(g) Task Force Model. This model is designed to foster a memorandum of understanding with ICE, leading to the establishment of a State Police Task Force. This task force will work specifically to identify and apprehend undocumented immigrants who present a threat to community safety.

Through this agreement, officers designated under federal authority will acquire special powers to engage in immigration enforcement activities, all under the watchful supervision of ICE. This oversight ensures that local actions align with federal guidelines and protocols.

Moreover, Governor Youngkin’s executive order extends beyond law enforcement to include local and regional jail systems. The state’s secretary of public safety and homeland security, Terrance Cole, is tasked with securing full compliance from jail authorities. This compliance is essential for securely handling immigration-related matters, such as processing and detention.

Cole’s responsibilities include reaching out to all directors and sheriffs overseeing local jails across Virginia. He is expected to confirm their commitment to cooperate fully with ICE and the newly formed Virginia State Police task force. This comprehensive approach aims to streamline processes involved in managing the immigration status of inmates.

Lt. Governor Winsome Earle-Sears shared her perspective on the new initiatives. As a legal immigrant and now a naturalized citizen, she expressed pride in the collaborative efforts between the Governor, Attorney General, and her office. “Working together, we have made Virginia safer,” Earle-Sears commented. She highlighted their focus on increasing funding for law enforcement and addressing violent crime in urban areas.

Earle-Sears, who is vying to succeed Youngkin, emphasized the need for strict measures against dangerous criminals who remain in the country illegally. She reflected on the numerous tragic incidents that have occurred when such individuals were re-released into communities. “This executive order will make sure we send them back to where they came from,” she asserted.

The approach adopted by Governor Youngkin and his administration may signal a shift in how states enforce immigration laws. While many have debated the ethical implications of deporting undocumented immigrants, Youngkin’s administration champions a model focused on public safety and law enforcement collaboration with federal agencies.

The broader implications of this policy reflect a trend that could reshape how states nationwide handle immigration enforcement. As Virginia aligns its efforts with federal directives, other states may look to this model as a framework for addressing similar issues.

Moving forward, the implementation of Executive Order 47 will play a critical role in defining Virginia’s stance on immigration enforcement. Lawmakers and local officials will need to navigate the challenges posed by the objectives outlined in the order while balancing the need for humane treatment of individuals caught in the immigration system.

Unquestionably, the intersection of state and federal immigration policies remains a contentious issue. Governor Youngkin’s initiative illustrates how states can assert control over immigration enforcement within their borders, possibly paving the way for broader discussions on national immigration reform.

Virginia’s commitment to cooperating with ICE marks a significant moment in the state’s immigration policy. Through various strategic alliances, Governor Youngkin aims to bolster the safety of communities whilst addressing complexities inherent in a multifaceted immigration system.