With Trump back in power, many of his supporters are intensifying efforts to ensure his influence endures and to silence anyone who opposes him. One strategy they are employing is facilitating ICE’s continued ability to arrest immigrants without resistance. To achieve this, lawmakers in Louisiana proposed two new bills designed to directly assist ICE agents.
Louisiana SB15: Would Criminalize Helping Immigrants in Louisiana
The first, Senate Bill 15, seeks to criminalize both law enforcement officers and ordinary citizens who refuse to cooperate with federal immigration authorities. The second, Senate Bill 100, mandates state agencies to monitor and report the immigration status of anyone receiving public services in Louisiana.
Proponents argue these bills promote public safety and financial accountability. They claim the laws will help determine the state’s costs associated with undocumented immigrants and enhance community safety overall.
However, critics are far less convinced. Opponents describe the bills as invasive and dangerous, contending that they violate the freedoms of everyday people and increase the chances of wrongful arrests by ICE and other law enforcement. Beyond that, these measures are anticipated to drive immigrants further underground, discouraging them from seeking help even during urgent situations.
Online discussions reflect strong opposition to these ICE-supportive bills. One Redditor commented, “This country is dystopian AF. Cops are in favor of this shit, then wonder why no one respects or trusts them. F*** the police.”
Others questioned whether the new laws would also target businesses knowingly employing undocumented immigrants. Many highlighted the double standard: while individuals supporting or protecting immigrant communities face targeting by ICE and Trump backers, wealthy business owners exploiting undocumented labor continue operating without repercussions.
One user shared a personal anecdote involving a family member:
“I have a jacka** extended family member who owns a construction business, is a huge Trump supporter and openly against immigration, but strictly employs immigrants to avoid paying reasonable wages. Why don’t they go after the CEOs of these types of companies? The kicker is that he’s a freakin’ immigrant himself AND a felon. The ‘got mine’ mentality is dumb as h***. I truly hope these kinds of people face justice one day.”
