A new Missouri bill would allow residents to earn $1,000 for reporting illegal immigrants to state authorities. State Sen.-elect David Gregory (R) introduced the proposal, Senate Bill 72, which would also create a program certifying bail bond agents as bounty hunters to track and detain illegal immigrants.
The legislation proposes an online reporting system managed by the Missouri State Highway Patrol. Residents who submit reports that result in action would qualify for the $1,000 bounty. Additionally, the “Missouri Illegal Alien Certified Bounty Hunter Program” would enable licensed individuals to participate in enforcement efforts.
Illegal immigrants found guilty of “trespass by an illegal alien” under the bill would face significant penalties, including being barred from public assistance, voting, obtaining driver’s licenses, or applying for legal residency in Missouri.
This measure is one of several immigration-related bills introduced by Missouri Republicans this session. Other proposals include fines for sanctuary cities, requirements for businesses to verify employee documentation, and penalties for certain immigration offenses.
Gov. Mike Parson (R) has backed efforts to enhance immigration enforcement. Earlier this year, he allocated over $2 million to send Missouri law enforcement and National Guard troops to Texas as part of “Operation Lonestar,” a program aimed at addressing border security.
Supporters of the legislation argue it provides much-needed tools for dealing with illegal immigration. Critics, however, caution that it could lead to unintended consequences such as racial profiling or targeting legal residents. The debate highlights the sharp divide between state and federal approaches to immigration policy.
