Trumball News

Representatives Nick Santucci from Niles and Gary Click from Vickery have put forward the 'America First Act,' a bill designed to bolster federal immigration policy. This legislative proposal aims to address immigration that has already been classified as unlawful on a federal level. It asserts that it is illegal for individuals determined as unlawful immigrants to reside in Ohio.

Under this act, those found violating the law face a $500 fine and potential imprisonment for one year, with heightened penalties for repeat offenses. Additionally, offenders are mandated to leave Ohio within three days following their release.

Santucci highlighted concerns regarding the ability of migrants to bypass laws, stating, “The ability for migrants to easily bypass our laws undermines the value of citizenship and weakens the integrity of the immigration process.” He also underscored Ohio's potential role in supporting legal immigration by focusing on individuals who adhere to legal frameworks.

The act stipulates that law enforcement must report detained individuals found to be unlawfully present to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). It allows these agencies to hand over the detainees to ICE for deportation during their sentence and obligates local enforcement agencies and facilities to comply with ICE detainer requests. Non-compliance from subdivisions may result in a $500 reduction from their local government funds.

Further provisions in the bill authorize Ohio law enforcement agencies to collaborate with federal authorities in maintaining a lawful immigration process. Click endorsed the act's stance, noting that it sends a clear message that lawful immigrants are welcome and appreciated. “The America First Act sends the message that we welcome lawful immigrants, and we value those who value America enough to knock and come through the front door,” said Click.

The bill has been labeled as H.B. 200 and is pending assignment to a committee and its first hearing.