DOJ Warns Iowa of Potential Lawsuit Over Immigration Legislation

Iowa may face legal repercussions if it chooses to enforce a recently passed immigration law that prohibits individuals from being in the state if they were previously denied entry into the United States, according to the Des Moines Register reported.

The Department of Justice has issued a warning to Republican Gov. Kim Reynolds and Attorney General Brenna Bird, stating that it will file a lawsuit against the state by May 7 if Senate File 2340 is implemented.

In April, Reynolds signed the bill into law, making it a state offense to be in Iowa if an individual had previously been denied admission or deported from the United States. Reynolds stated, “This bill empowers Iowa law enforcement to enforce immigration laws that are already in place.”

The Principal Deputy Assistant General Brian Boynton from the DOJ wrote that the government “intends to file a lawsuit to uphold the supremacy of federal law.”

“SF 2340 is in conflict with federal law and violates the United States Constitution,” Boyton’s letter states.

Reynolds responded publicly to the federal threats on Twitter, “The only reason we implemented this law is because the Biden Administration is failing to enforce existing laws. I have a responsibility to protect the citizens of Iowa. Unlike the federal government, we will adhere to the rule of law and enforce it.”

Bird also remained firm in the face of the government’s threats, stating in a press release, “Iowa will not retreat.”

“Not only has Biden neglected to enforce federal immigration laws and secure our borders, he is now threatening to prevent states like Iowa from enforcing our own laws,” Bird said.

“Our message to Biden is clear: Iowa will stand its ground and safeguard our state’s security. If Biden fails to address the border issues and protect our communities, Iowa will step in to do the job.”

Prior to the passage of the law in March, Des Moines Police Chief Dana Wingert expressed concerns to The Associated Press, stating, “Simply put, we do not have the resources to take on this additional responsibility, nor do we have the capability to carry out this task.”

This report includes information from The Associated Press.