Representative Taylor Collins, a member of the Iowa House Judiciary Committee, released the following statement following the U.S. Justice Department suing the State of Iowa over the state’s new law criminalizing illegal immigration under state law:
“Our first responsibility as elected leaders is to ensure the safety and security of Iowans,” said Rep. Collins.
The State of Iowa can no longer sit idly by and continue to allow the willful invasion of our country.
As long as the Biden Administration refuses to do their job, we will do it for them.”
Because SF 2340 is preempted by federal law and violates the United States Constitution, the Justice Department seeks a declaration that SF 2340 is invalid and an order preliminarily or permanently enjoining the state from enforcing the law.
As outlined in the complaint, Iowa’s law would create a new state crime for unlawful reentry, with charges ranging from an aggravated misdemeanor to a felony. Additionally, SF 2340 would require state judges to order removal from the United States.
SF 2340 impedes the federal government’s ability to enforce entry and removal provisions of federal law and interferes with its conduct of foreign relations.
The suit was filed on behalf of the United States, including Justice Department, the Department of Homeland Security and Department of State.