Missouri Sen.-elect David Gregory has introduced a controversial bill that would create a $1,000 bounty for reporting illegal migrants living in the state. The legislation includes a new felony offense, “trespass by an illegal alien,” mandating prison time without parole or probation for those convicted. The bill also seeks to prohibit such individuals from voting, obtaining driver’s licenses, or receiving public benefits.
The proposal would establish the “Missouri Illegal Alien Certified Bounty Hunter Program,” enabling licensed bail bond agents to apply as bounty hunters tasked with identifying and detaining illegal migrants.
Critics, however, argue the legislation is dangerous and discriminatory. Civil rights attorney Javad Khazaeli likened the program to historic oppressive practices, warning it could lead to racial profiling and harassment of lawful residents, including U.S. citizens of Hispanic descent.
