YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – Arizona House members were in Yuma on Monday discussing how the controversial “Border Security Act” will affect border security in our area and the rest of the state.

Thousands of migrants cross the U.S.-Mexico border each month seeking asylum.

Yuma Regional Medical Center said it has treated about 90 migrants over the past nine months but is running out of supplies.

Some state lawmakers believe the “Border Security Act” would help solve the problem.

As the border crisis continues, costs are mounting.

“We can't just write a check and say Yuma County can do all of these things. It's a balancing act and it has to be an ongoing effort,” said Rep. Tim Dunn, R-Ariz., who represents the 25th Congressional District.

But local state Rep. Tim Dunn believes the bill will help save Arizona money.

“Even if it costs $1,200 per person to do what we're doing today, the long-term effect of what the hospitals have said and what we're actually doing is going to reduce costs over time, and that's been proven,” Dunn said.

The most controversial provision is one that makes crossing borders illegally a state crime.

But Dunn said police need a valid reason to stop someone.

“This law does not allow emergency responders, sheriffs, paramedics or law enforcement personnel to racially profile. They have to have probable cause. They have to have the camera data or they're going to work with CBP,” Dunn said.

He also said some migrants are evading Border Patrol.

“This is a fugitive issue. CBP is dealing with those who cross the border, but some people are fleeing into the desert,” Rep. Dunn said.

The resolution doesn't just address immigration issues.

“Fentanyl trafficking is clearly a huge problem and HCR 2060 seeks to address that,” said Rep. Ben Toma (R-Ariz.), 27th Congressional District.

The provision includes tougher penalties for fentanyl, increasing minimum and maximum sentences by five years.

According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, 26,718 pounds of fentanyl were seized at the southwest border in fiscal year 2023.

In fiscal year 2024, 10,881 pounds of fentanyl were seized.

HCR 2060 also strengthens the E-Verify program, which ensures that a person is legally in the U.S. before receiving public assistance.

The Arizona House of Representatives is scheduled to vote on the resolution on Tuesday.

If the House passes it, it will be put on the ballot in November and put to voters.

A live stream of the roundtable discussion can be viewed below.