Senate Republicans Pass Border Security Package to Protect Communities, Strengthen Lawful Trade
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, March 9, 2026
PHOENIX, ARIZONA—Senate Republicans are taking action to strengthen border security and protect Arizona communities, passing a package of legislation that reinforces cooperation with federal immigration authorities, closes public safety gaps tied to unlawful presence in the state, and supports infrastructure critical to lawful trade and travel. The measures support law enforcement, improve coordination with federal agencies, and prioritize the safety of Arizona families and taxpayers.
SB 1474, sponsored by Senator Wendy Rogers, strengthens cooperation between Arizona law enforcement and federal immigration authorities by encouraging participation in federal enforcement agreements, requiring immigration enforcement training statewide, and preventing policies that restrict coordination with federal agencies.
"Under President Trump's leadership, border security is once again being taken seriously at the federal level," said Senator Rogers. "Arizona is reinforcing that effort by funding barriers where they are needed most and ensuring full cooperation with federal enforcement. We are proud to stand with an administration that puts American safety first."
SB 1213, sponsored by former Senate Majority Leader Janae Shamp, strengthens coordination between Arizona courts and federal immigration authorities to prevent criminal illegal aliens from remaining on probation without federal notification. The legislation requires immediate communication with immigration officials when an unlawfully present individual is convicted of a crime or released from custody. The proposal comes in response to recent cases highlighted in media reports involving a convicted sex offender with repeated probation violations who remained in the community before being accused of sexually assaulting a child at a Phoenix elementary school.
"Arizonans should never have to learn after a tragedy that warning signs were ignored," said Senator Shamp. "If someone is in this country illegally and commits a crime, the system should not place them back on probation and move on. This bill ensures federal immigration authorities are immediately involved so dangerous offenders are not allowed to remain in our communities, especially pedophiles."
SB 1511, sponsored by Senate Majority Whip Frank Carroll, strengthens roadway safety by requiring operators of commercial vehicles in Arizona to demonstrate lawful presence in the United States and allows law enforcement to impound vehicles when drivers cannot provide proof. The measure aims to prevent deadly crashes involving unqualified or unlawfully present drivers operating large commercial trucks on Arizona highways.
"One reckless decision behind the wheel of an 80,000-pound truck can destroy lives in seconds," said Majority Whip Carroll. "Arizona is not going to wait for a preventable tragedy before acting. This bill gives law enforcement the tools to stop illegal and unqualified drivers before innocent families pay the price."
SB 1272, sponsored by Senator David Gowan, helps strengthen commerce between Arizona and its number one trade partner, Mexico, by supporting improvements at the Douglas Port of Entry. The legislation provides state funding that helps Arizona move closer to meeting the required match needed to secure a major federal investment to modernize the crossing. By contributing toward those matching funds, the bill helps unlock hundreds of millions of dollars in federal funding for the project, which will improve security screening, reduce congestion, and support faster, more efficient lawful trade and travel at one of Arizona's busiest international crossings.
"Arizona's ports of entry are critical to both our security and our economy," said Senator Gowan. "Investing in modern infrastructure helps law enforcement better monitor who and what is coming into our country while supporting lawful commerce that benefits Arizona communities."
This legislation reflects ongoing efforts to reduce border-related crime, support law enforcement, and strengthen public safety across Arizona communities. The bills are advancing to the House for further consideration. Bills with an appropriation attached will be considered during budget negotiations between the Senate, House, and Governor.
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For more information, contact:
Kim Quintero
Director of Communications | Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus