Arizona voters will decide Tuesday, Nov. 5, on Proposition 314, a controversial measure that could change how the state handles illegal immigration. If passed, it would grant local law enforcement new powers to arrest and deport migrants.
The measure was placed on the ballot by Republican lawmakers after Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs vetoed a similar bill earlier this year. Proposition 314 would criminalize crossing the Arizona-Mexico border outside of authorized checkpoints.
It would also introduce new state crimes, including criminalizing the sale of fentanyl that leads to death and requiring the use of the E-Verify system to access public benefits.
The most contentious provision involves enforcement. The measure would allow state and local police to arrest migrants suspected of being in the country illegally. It would also allow state judges could issue deportation orders.
This directly challenges the federal government’s control over immigration laws.
Supporters argue the federal government isn’t doing enough to enforce immigration law. They say this measure would allow the state to address the immigration crisis directly.
However, critics warn the measure could be costly to the state. Some opponents say it could worsen Arizona’s already significant labor shortage. Industries like construction and agriculture, which rely heavily on immigrant workers, would be particularly affected.
As of June, Arizona had a shortfall of 197,000 jobs. Immigrants make up about 16% of the state’s workforce according to a 2022 study by the American Immigration Council. Critics say mass deportations could damage the state’s economy.
The proposal mirrors Texas’ Senate Bill 4. The law enables local law enforcement to arrest migrants who are in the country illegally. However, the law is currently held up in the courts.
Arizona’s Proposition 314 is tied to the legal battle in Texas. Even if the proposition passes, it would only take effect if the Texas law is approved by the U.S. Supreme Court.
With immigration and border security dominating political discourse in Arizona, the measure is seen as a way for Republicans to energize voters, especially with an abortion measure also on the ballot that is expected to mobilize Democratic voters.
