Arizona bill would make it legal to shoot and kill migrants

Controversial Arizona bill introduced.

It could make it legal to kill migrants.

It’s an expansion of the existing ‘Castle Doctrine.’

A controversial Arizona bill has been introduced that could affect migrants.

It would potentially allow ranchers to shoot and kill migrants who trespass on their property, without facing charges.

The proposal, known as HB-2842, is driven by Republican lawmakers and seeks to expand what is known in the state as the ‘Castle Doctrine.’

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Stand your ground laws authorize the use of lethal force against those who come on to someone’s property and are perceived as a threat.

According to Republican state legislator Justin Heap, who is promoting the measure, this extension of the law would eliminate what he considers «technicalities.»

The proposed law would protect ranchers from the increased flow of undocumented migrants crossing their properties.

The proposed legislation seeks to change the word «home» to «property,» thus providing greater legal coverage to ranchers, even on land far from their residences.

Controversial Arizona bill could make it legal to kill migrants

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Rep. Heap explained that he considers these changes necessary due to the increase in the flow of undocumented migrants through ranches on the border.

He stated that this leaves ranchers vulnerable, according to EFE.

By changing the word «home» to «property,» ranchers’ land that is far from their homes would be included.

This proposal arises at a crucial moment, just 73-year-old rancher George Allan Kelly’s murder trial is set to begin.

Concerns about the proposed bill

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Kelly is a rancher facing second-degree murder charges for shooting and killing a Mexican migrant in 2023.

If the law is passed, it will exempt ranchers from any charges if they use lethal force against migrants they consider a threat to themselves or their families on their property.

Democratic lawmakers have denounced this measure, arguing that it would encourage racial discrimination and endanger lives.

Ranchers in Arizona have backed the proposal, claiming their land is frequently as routes for human and drug trafficking into the United States.

HB-2842 has already passed the state House

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According to EFE, the state House has already approved HB-2842 and it now goes to the Senate.

This debate highlights tensions around immigration and border security in Arizona, where immigration policies have been a subject of strong controversy for years.

The possibility that ranchers have carte blanche to use lethal force against migrants crossing their land raises serious concerns.

Democratic Governor Katie Hobbs has promised to veto the bill if it reaches her desk.

Controversy over the proposed legislation

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Proponents of the measure argue that it seeks to protect the rights and security of border residents, while opponents see it differently.

They see it as a way to legitimize violence and discrimination against migrants.

The bill is unlikely to become law unless the governor’s veto is overturned.

Still, its mere existence reflects the deep divisions and difficult ethical dilemmas surrounding the issue of immigration in the United States.