Staff Reports
Governor Kevin Stitt of Oklahoma has taken action to address the ongoing crisis at the United States’ southern border. He recently signed House Bill 4156 into law, making it illegal to live in his state without legal permission to be in the U.S. The governor expressed disappointment that new legislation was necessary due to the significant increase in illegal border crossings since President Biden's inauguration. Stitt emphasized the concerns of Oklahoma residents about the potential for increased crime with the influx of illegal immigrants, including individuals from China and those associated with terrorist organizations.
In a statement, Governor Stitt emphasized his commitment to protecting all four million Oklahomans and ensuring that every law-abiding citizen has the opportunity to pursue the American Dream. He emphasized that law enforcement cannot profile individuals or ask about their immigration status without reasonable suspicion of a crime. Additionally, Governor Stitt has established the Oklahoma State Work Permits and Visas (OSWPV) Task Force, which aims to improve the state's workforce and create opportunities for immigrants who contribute to their communities and the economy.
You better believe it. https://t.co/Ly16pEKDek
— Governor Kevin Stitt (@GovStitt) May 1, 2024
Those found violating the new law will have 72 hours to leave Oklahoma and could face misdemeanor charges, punishable by up to a year in jail or a $500 fine. Subsequent violations could result in felony charges, carrying a penalty of up to two years in prison or a fine of up to $1,000.
Oklahoma has joined forces with 13 other states to deploy National Guard troops to the southern border in support of Governor Greg Abbott’s Operation Lone Star in Texas. Governor Stitt’s actions reflect the growing frustration among conservative leaders with the federal government’s handling of the border crisis and the need for states to take steps to protect their residents.
