A group of Republican lawmakers has introduced legislation aimed at preventing illegal aliens from serving as armed law enforcement officers, a move supporters say is critical for public safety and consistent enforcement of federal gun laws.
While the bill focuses on prohibiting firearms, backers argue that illegal aliens should not hold law enforcement positions at all.
The bicameral Stop Illegal Alien Cops Act was unveiled Wednesday by North Carolina Sen. Ted Budd (R) and Rep. Mary Miller (R-IL), with backing from a coalition of Republicans in both the Senate and House.
The proposed law would close a loophole in federal gun regulations that currently allows illegal aliens employed by law enforcement agencies to carry firearms issued by those departments.
Federal statutes generally prohibit those living in the U.S. without authorization from owning or possessing guns, but some agency-issued exceptions have allowed certain officers to be armed legally.
“Those who have entered the country illegally should not be entrusted with firearms provided by law enforcement,” Budd said in a statement. “This bill ensures local police follow the same rules that apply under federal law.”
Miller echoed the concern, highlighting that some sanctuary policies allow non-citizens to wear badges and carry weapons, a practice she described as a threat to public safety and the integrity of law enforcement.
The legislation has gained additional Senate support from Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), John Cornyn (R-TX), and Markwayne Mullin (R-OK).
In the House, Miller’s bill counts 17 co-sponsors, including Paul Gosar (R-AZ) and Chip Roy (R-TX).
Advocacy organizations such as Gun Owners of America, National Shooting Sports Foundation, and Federation for American Immigration Reform have endorsed the legislation.
Supporters of the bill cite recent cases in which illegal aliens were employed in law enforcement roles while carrying firearms.
In New Orleans, a police recruit was arrested after receiving a department-issued weapon despite lacking legal residency.
In Ohio, a police officer was apprehended for working illegally after overstaying his visa.
Similar reports have surfaced in California, Illinois, and Maine, raising concerns about oversight and compliance with federal law.
The bill also addresses situations involving Dreamers under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.
According to the Washington Times, a 2024 ATF guidance memo allowed some DACA recipients to carry firearms while performing law enforcement duties, creating what lawmakers argue is an inconsistent legal standard.
The new legislation would eliminate these exceptions, applying the ban on firearm possession uniformly to all illegal aliens serving in official roles.
Experts say the measure reflects broader questions about staffing shortages and recruitment policies in local police departments.
Some agencies, particularly in sanctuary jurisdictions, have reportedly hired individuals lacking legal residency, relying on work permits or temporary status to fill positions.
Republicans argue this practice undermines public trust and exposes communities to unnecessary risk.
“Law enforcement authority must be reserved for individuals who respect and uphold U.S. laws,” Miller said. “Allowing illegal immigrants to carry weapons or hold badges is a danger to citizens and a disservice to lawful officers.”
The Stop Illegal Alien Cops Act has been introduced to both chambers, signaling a strong Republican effort to standardize firearm rules for police personnel nationwide.
Lawmakers emphasize that the legislation would not affect officers from friendly nations visiting for law enforcement purposes or visitors admitted for specific, authorized firearm-related activities, such as hunting competitions.
As the debate continues, supporters maintain that closing this legal loophole will reinforce public safety, protect communities, and ensure that all law enforcement officers adhere to the same constitutional and federal standards.
