DES MOINES, Iowa — Iowa House Republicans moved a bill out of subcommittee a couple weeks ago that drew concerns from Iowa Latino communities and local law enforcement agencies.

The bill would have required every law enforcement agency in the state to enter into a written memorandum of agreement with the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement to participate in immigration programs. This would essentially federalize local police entities and have them perform ICE duties in their local communities.

The bill sponsor, State Representative Steve Holt decided to table the bill at the House judiciary committee on Tuesday.

“Discussion related to the concerns law enforcement had expressed in terms of manpower, but also a concern that in a way that sort of federalized our law enforcement agencies,” said Rep. Holt (R) District 12 from Denison. “And the unintended consequences of that was a concern to a lot of people. So not that we don’t want cooperation with immigration authorities, but in the end, we don’t necessarily think that this is the right path to achieve that.”

Law enforcement agencies and associations spoke at the subcommittee about needed funding tied with what the bill requires to properly abide by the law. The legislation did not have any appropriations attached to it. Local organizations were pleased to not see the bill survive funnel week.

“We ultimately are really glad that HSB 187, the bill that would deputize local cops, we’re glad that it’s not advancing,” said Erica Johnson, the Executive Director for the Iowa Migrant Movement for Justice. “It’s good for Iowa, it’s good for immigrants, it’s good for communities, it’s good for public safety.”

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