SB69 expands eligibility for law-enforcement positions to individuals with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status. Under Existing law, only U.S. citizens can serve as police officers, deputy sheriffs, jail officers, and other law-enforcement roles.
The Virginia State House of Delegates passed SB69 on February 28, 2024 by a vote of 53 to 47. We have assigned pluses to the nays because persons who enter the United States illegally—which, by definition, is a crime—ought not to be permitted sanctuary or residency in Virginia, let alone be considered eligible for appointment as local police officers and deputy sheriffs. Rather than pursue a blatantly unconstitutional and anti-American policy that erodes both the rule of law and the value of citizenship, Virginia should use its powers reserved under the U.S. Constitution’s 10th Amendment to end the crisis of illegal migration and provide for the public safety.