North Summit News

The Ohio Senate has approved Senate Bill 172, a legislative measure sponsored by State Senator Kristina Roegner. The bill aims to strengthen the state's immigration laws by clarifying that individuals unlawfully present in the United States are not exempt from arrest.

Senator Roegner emphasized the importance of law and order, stating, "The United States is a nation of immigrants, but we are also a nation of law and order. To have a civilized society, laws must be respected, this includes immigration laws." She cited estimates claiming that between 10 to 13 million people entered the country illegally during the Biden Administration's four-year term. Among these individuals, she claimed there were those who posed serious threats to public safety.

The bill outlines several prohibitions for public officials: they are not allowed to obstruct or interfere with law enforcement agencies or officers involved in immigration-related arrests or detentions. Additionally, it prevents anyone from restricting inquiries about an individual's citizenship status or cooperating with law enforcement efforts under the bill. It also protects those acting in good faith under its provisions from civil or criminal penalties if their actions conflict with other rules or policies.

Roegner reassured legal residents by saying, “If you are in this country legally, then you have nothing to fear from Senate Bill 172.” She encouraged those unlawfully present to consider voluntary departure options facilitated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

The bill will now move on to the Ohio House for further deliberation.