'Conflicts with many existing directives': Oklahoma law enforcement leaders issue joint statement on immigration bill

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — The Oklahoma Association of Chiefs of Police and Metro Law Enforcement Agency Leaders released a joint statement on Tuesday addressing the recently signed immigration bill, House Bill 4156.

After being signed into law by Governor Kevin Stitt on April 30, HB 4156 gives law enforcement officers the authority to make arrest based on immigration status starting July 1.

Opponents of the bill have voiced concerns about potential racial profiling and increased victim fear when reporting crimes once the new law takes effect.

In a joint statement on Tuesday, Oklahoma law enforcement leaders voiced similar concerns as agencies across the state prepare to enforce the new law, while also mentioning that law enforcement agencies "were not substantively involved during the process of drafting and signing HB 4156 into law."

The full statement can be read below.

House Bill 4156 was recently signed into law by Governor Stitt with an effective date of July 1, 2024. Oklahoma law enforcement agencies are actively collaborating to ensure our response to this legislation is unified and our communities are informed about how it may impact them. While we acknowledge the importance of legislative efforts to enhance public safety, we have found that this law conflicts with many existing directives governing law enforcement practices throughout Oklahoma.

Law enforcement leaders from state organizations and municipalities were not substantively involved during the process of drafting and signing HB4156 into law. This bill places crime victims at risk by increasing the fear of reporting to law enforcement. Further, HB4156 brings forth legal challenges in fair and impartial policing and anti-racial profiling. These unintended consequences may deteriorate public trust in law enforcement in already vulnerable communities, ultimately resulting in increased public safety concerns.

We recognize the many immigrant communities within our state who are fearful and uncertain about their futures. This law has the potential to destroy the connections and relationships we have built within our local immigrant communities and set us back for many years to come. We are committed to maintaining trust and communication between law enforcement and all immigrant communities as we navigate the future.

It is imperative we work collaboratively towards solutions that prioritize public safety while upholding the rights of all members of our communities. We will continue to work with our respective legal advisors and community stakeholders to ensure our service is both lawful and consistent with community expectations that respect all those we serve.

Oklahoma Association of Chiefs of Police and Metro Law Enforcement Agency Leaders