Rep. Mike Cabell stated on Wednesday that Pennsylvania should take action to enhance the safety of its residents, and he believes his bill would do just that by taking a tougher stance on those who decide to enter the state unlawfully.
Referring to an increase in crimes committed by illegal immigrants and a surge in overdose deaths nationwide, Cabell, R-Butler Township, announced his intention to introduce a bill that would make unauthorized migration a criminal offense at the state level in Pennsylvania.
Cabell stated, “While many individuals entering the United States are seeking better lives and opportunities, there have been a number of well-publicized violent crimes committed by undocumented immigrants. In addition, last year saw the highest number of overdose deaths in history.”
According to Cabell, his proposal would establish two criminal offenses related to illegal entry from foreign nations and illegal re-entry by certain individuals. Specifically, it would classify an alien as committing an offense if they enter the Commonwealth directly from a foreign nation at any location other than a lawful port of entry. Additionally, individuals who re-enter the U.S. after being previously deported would also be committing an offense.
Cabell mentioned that his legislation is based on the Texas immigration law SB4, which grants state law enforcement the authority to apprehend migrants suspected of entering the country illegally.
Cabell is currently seeking co-sponsors for his bill.
