DES MOINES, Iowa — The Iowa Senate is working to give the state more power when it comes to criminalizing those who are in Iowa illegally.
SF 2340 results in a person committing an offense if they enter, attempt to enter or is at any time found in this state if the person has been previously denied admission.
This would result in the crime being classified as an aggravated misdemeanor.
"Every state is a border state. Iowa is no exception," said Sen. Jeff Reichman, R-Lee. "I-35 provides a direct route from the southern border to Iowa."
The legislation also gives judges the power — during a person's initial appearance following an arrest for a violation of the bill — to order the person released from custody, and issue a written order requiring the person return to the foreign nation from which the person came.
An amendment proposed during debate, which later failed, is similar to a federal law that allows women to work with law enforcement in certain situations.
"Senate File 2340 will harm survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking who have worked with law enforcement to bring abusers and traffickers to justice," said Sen. Zach Wahls, D-Johnson.
The biggest argument lawmakers against are citing is that this issue falls under federal jurisdiction, not the state.
"Our president took that same oath along with us customers and borders, he has failed," Reichman said.
Ultimately, those voting against the legislation believe there isn't enough clarification surrounding the bill.
"This bill is a political stunt and a false promise that doesn't contain the needed resources, it's a 'gotcha' bill," said Sen. Janice Weiner, D-Johnson.
The bill passed out of the senate in a vote of 34-16 and will now move immediately to the House for consideration.