Arizona residents will soon have the opportunity to vote on a groundbreaking immigration enforcement proposal after the state’s Supreme Court cleared the way for its inclusion on the November ballot. The measure, known as Proposition 314, would grant local law enforcement the authority to arrest individuals who enter the state illegally from Mexico.

Chief Justice Ann A. Scott Timmer rejected arguments that the proposal violated the single-subject rule, allowing it to move forward to a public vote. If passed, the measure would introduce several significant changes to Arizona’s approach to illegal immigration and border security.

Sen. Tom Cotton (R-AR) praised the decision, stating, “This proposal gives Arizonans the chance to take control of their border security. It’s a bold step towards addressing the crisis that the federal government has failed to manage.”

Key provisions of Proposition 314 include:

• Empowering state and local police to arrest illegal entrants
• Allowing judges to order deportations
• Mandating E-Verify for public benefits enrollment
• Imposing harsh penalties for fentanyl-related deaths

The measure bears similarities to Texas’ controversial Senate Bill 4, which faced legal challenges from the federal government. Arizona State Sen. Justine Wadsack (R) described Proposition 314 as “like the Texas bill, only stronger.”

Critics argue that the proposal overreaches state authority on immigration matters. However, supporters contend it’s a necessary step given federal inaction on border security.

As Arizona prepares for this pivotal vote, other states are watching closely. Oklahoma, Iowa and Louisiana have considered similar measures, signaling a potential shift in how states approach immigration enforcement.

The upcoming vote in Arizona could set a precedent for state-level immigration policy, potentially reshaping the national debate on border security and illegal immigration.