Indy Standard

State Rep. Craig Haggard of Mooresville recently participated in a discussion on illegal immigration with Attorney General Todd Rokita, White House Border Czar Tom Homan, and former Department of Homeland Security Acting Secretary Chad Wolf. The meeting focused on how Indiana can improve collaboration with the federal government to address border security and illegal immigration.

Haggard emphasized that illegal immigration is not only a concern for states along the U.S. border but affects all states, including Indiana. He cited data from the American First Policy Institute, stating that illegal immigration cost Indiana $921 million in 2023, with each undocumented individual costing the state $4,451.

"As a Marine veteran and member of the House Veterans Affairs and Public Safety Committee, I know how important this issue is and see how it impacts our state and communities," Haggard said. "From fentanyl and other drugs coming across the border and human trafficking by the cartels, to increased crime and exploiting cheap labor and our public-school systems, this issue takes its toll here at home, not just nationally."

Haggard highlighted recent actions taken at both the executive and legislative levels in Indiana. Earlier this year, Governor Mike Braun signed Executive Order 25-29 to promote cooperation between state agencies, local law enforcement, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). In addition, House Enrolled Act 1393 was passed to improve coordination between local law enforcement agencies and federal immigration authorities.

He also noted his support for House Bill 1531, which aimed to require local law enforcement to honor federal immigration detainer requests while granting immunity to officers who comply. Although this bill did not pass during the last session, Haggard expressed support for efforts to reintroduce it in 2026.

Furthermore, during the 2024 legislative session lawmakers passed Senate Enrolled Act 181. This law allows the attorney general to file lawsuits against local governments or universities that do not comply with Indiana’s ban on sanctuary cities.

"I remain committed to working at the state level to help our federal counterparts in addressing illegal immigration, securing the border and ensuring safe, thriving communities," Haggard stated. "I'm proud to support President Trump and his administration in these efforts."

Haggard represents House District 57 covering parts of Hendricks, Johnson, and Morgan counties.