The proposed bill establishes new offenses related to the transportation, concealment, or hiring of illegal or unauthorized aliens in Wyoming, imposing penalties for violations. Specifically, it prohibits individuals from knowingly transporting or concealing unauthorized aliens, with violations classified as felonies punishable by up to five years in prison and fines. Additionally, the bill mandates that peace officers inquire about a person's immigration status during detentions and requires law enforcement to notify federal agencies if an individual is determined to be an unauthorized alien. The bill also includes provisions for verifying citizenship status for public benefits, requiring documentation for the issuance of driver's licenses and identification cards, and mandates annual reporting on compliance with these requirements.
Furthermore, the bill outlines the responsibilities of various state and local agencies, including the attorney general and county sheriffs, to negotiate memoranda of understanding with federal agencies regarding immigration enforcement. It prohibits local governments from enacting policies that limit cooperation with federal officials on immigration matters and establishes a private right of action for individuals to compel compliance with the law. Key insertions in the bill include requirements for verifying citizenship status for public benefits and the issuance of driver's licenses, as well as the establishment of penalties for hiring unauthorized aliens. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, with certain sections effective immediately upon the bill's passage.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 7-13-104, 31-7-111, 31-8-101