Missouri House Speaker Dean Plocher announced the formation of a new special interim committee on Illegal Immigrant Crimes, with the primary goal of identifying crimes committed by illegal residents in Missouri and finding solutions. The committee aims to address concerns about public safety, particularly related to illegal immigration. Republicans argue that the committee is necessary to protect Missourians from crimes such as drug trafficking and sex trafficking that are allegedly linked to illegal immigrants.
However, Democrats, including Columbia Rep. David Tyson Smith, believe the committee is unnecessary and a waste of resources. They argue that issues like gun violence should be prioritized instead. Despite data showing that immigrants are less likely to commit crimes than natural-born citizens, the committee members are focused on the impact of illegal immigration on crime rates in the state.
The committee plans to hold six hearings across Missouri to gather input from law enforcement on their experiences with illegal immigrant-related crimes. The first hearing is scheduled for July 11 in Jefferson City. The news conference highlighted recent crimes involving illegal residents, reinforcing the message that those who commit crimes while in Missouri illegally will face deportation.
As the committee begins its work, it will investigate the legal authority the state has to deport individuals. The debate surrounding the necessity of the committee and its focus on illegal immigrant crimes is likely to continue as the committee progresses.
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