Creates new provisions relating to illegal immigrants
Summary
SB 58 creates a new Missouri framework aimed at deterring illegal immigration and unauthorized entry into the state. It authorizes the governor, with assistance from the attorney general, to negotiate an interstate compact for border security with other states, focused on sharing intelligence, resources, and technology to monitor and deter illegal activity near the U.S.-Mexico border. The compact would not take effect unless approved by the General Assembly through concurrent resolution, and any later modification would also require legislative approval.
The bill also creates two new criminal offenses. “Improper entry by an illegal alien” would apply when a person enters Missouri while violating federal immigration law, and it would carry a $10,000 fine, with repeat offenses elevated to a class E felony. Courts could issue an order of removal in certain cases, and law enforcement would be authorized to arrest or detain a person on probable cause of a violation. A second offense, “aggravated illegal presence,” would apply when a person in violation of federal entry law is arrested for any Missouri offense, with penalties ranging from a class E felony to a class A felony depending on the seriousness of the underlying arrest.
Impact
If enacted, SB 58 would add three new sections to Missouri law in chapters 44 and 577, creating both a border-security compact mechanism and new state immigration-related crimes. It would expand state authority in an area closely tied to federal immigration enforcement by defining offenses based on federal immigration status and by authorizing removal orders and detention procedures under state law. The bill would affect immigrants, law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, courts, and the governor’s office, while also potentially requiring appropriations for compact-related border security measures.
Sentiment
No committee transcripts or recorded votes were provided, so there is no direct evidence of debate or formal support/opposition in the available materials. Based on the bill text, the measure is clearly framed as a public-safety and border-security initiative, suggesting supporters would view it as a deterrent to unlawful entry and related crime. The absence of discussion and voting history prevents a reliable assessment of broader legislative sentiment.
Contention
The main points of contention likely concern state authority versus federal immigration authority, the use of criminal penalties tied to immigration status, and the practical enforceability of removal orders and detention provisions. Critics would likely question whether the bill conflicts with federal immigration law or invites constitutional challenges, while supporters would emphasize state sovereignty, border security, and public safety. The interstate compact provision may also raise concerns about cost, implementation, and whether Missouri should participate in border-focused enforcement efforts despite not being a border state.