A new law in Alabama requires the collection of biometric data from undocumented immigrants, which has sparked both praise from some national leaders and significant pushback from civil liberty advocates.
Signed into law by Governor Kay Ivey, Senate Bill 63 mandates local law enforcement to collect fingerprints and DNA samples from undocumented immigrants before their release. These samples will be submitted to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency and the Alabama Department of Forensic Science for inclusion in the state database.
According to Ivey, this legislation aligns with broader efforts to enhance public safety and aid law enforcement in identifying those with criminal backgrounds.
“Alabama is taking steps to protect our communities from the impact on public safety and election integrity,” she stated at the signing.
The bill was sponsored by Senator Lance Bell and garnered bipartisan support. Proponents argue that it addresses existing enforcement gaps and provides a more reliable method for identifying undocumented immigrants who interact with the legal system.
However, critics raise concerns about civil liberties and potential government overreach.
The American Civil Liberties Union expressed these concerns, stating, “The collection and retention of DNA and fingerprints based solely on immigration status creates a dangerous surveillance system that disproportionately affects immigrant communities. It expands government tracking of personal information without adequate legal justification and violates fundamental civil liberties.”
Another contentious point involves the funding mechanism, which introduces new court fees to support law enforcement efforts. Critics argue that this financial burden will ultimately fall on all Alabama residents. They also point out that the state’s actions could duplicate existing federal practices, as agencies like Immigration and Customs Enforcement already collect biometric data.
Despite the ongoing debate, the law is now in effect and will be enforced by law enforcement across the state. The long-term implications for public safety and civil rights remain to be seen.
