Law Enforcement Coordination on Immigration Issues

A new bill introduced in Congress aims to improve coordination between state and federal law enforcement agencies on immigration issues, particularly when it comes to combating gangs and drug trafficking.

The "Unhandcuffing Police to Locate and Interdict Foreign Transgressors (UPLIFT) Act," introduced by Rep. Gabe Evans (R-Colo.), seeks to address limitations imposed by certain state laws that restrict communication between local authorities and federal agencies regarding illegal immigrants suspected of committing other crimes.

Evans argues that these limitations hinder federal investigations and compromise community safety. He cites the example of a recent DEA operation in his district that targeted the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, classified as a foreign terrorist organization. Local law enforcement knew the identities of the gang members but were unable to act due to state restrictions.

The UPLIFT Act aims to overcome these obstacles by clarifying that state and local cooperation with federal authorities on immigration matters does not violate the Supremacy Clause or the 10th Amendment. The bill has received support from fellow Colorado Republican representatives Lauren Boebert, Jeff Crank, and Jeff Hurd.

The legislation has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee for further consideration.