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Collins releases comment on Iowa’s new immigration law
In light of a suit questioning the constitutionality of Senate File 2340, Rep. Collins speaks favorably legislation
DES MOINES — State Rep. Taylor Collins representing District 95 which includes Des Moines, Louisa, Henry and Muscatine Counties released statements in favor of Iowa’s new law criminalizing illegal immigration following the U.S. Justice Department filing a suit against the Sate of Iowa on the subject.
According to the U.S. Justice Department, “The Constitution assigns the federal government to regulate immigration and manage our international borders. Pursuant to this authority, Congress has established a comprehensive immigration framework governing the entry of noncitizens into the U.S. and the removal of noncitizens from the country.“
In a statement about the suit, the department states that Senate File 2340 criminalizing illegal immigration under state law is preempted by federal law and violates the United States Constitution. The suit was filed in hopes of invalidating S.F. 2340 and instructing the state against enforcing such a law.
According to the complaint filed by the Justice Department, the Department of Homeland Security and Department of State on behalf of the United States, S.F. 2340 would create a new state crime for unlawful reentry. Those caught breaking this law could be subject to charges ranging from an aggravated misdemeanor to a felony. The law would also require state level judges order removal of such individuals not only from Iowa, but the United States.
“Iowa cannot disregard the U.S. Constitution and settled Supreme Court precedent,” Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Department's Civil Division said in a statement. “We have brought this action to ensure that Iowa adheres to the framework adopted by Congress and the Constitution for regulation of immigration.”
Collins’s comments on the subject do not address the specific claims laid out in the suit, but instead focus on the reasoning behind passing such a law in the first place saying, “As long as the Biden Administration refuses to do their job, we will do it for them.”
"Our first responsibility as elected leaders is to ensure the safety and security of Iowans," Collins said.
He further states, “The State of Iowa can no longer sit idly by and continue to allow the willful invasion of our country."
Comments: AnnaMarie.Ward@southeastiowaunion.com
