By Matthew Holloway |
The Arizona Senate approved a package of border security legislation that would direct $40 million toward detention reimbursements, supplemental fencing, and expanded use of aerial surveillance technology.
The bills passed were SB 1156, SB 1157, and SB 1457, and they now move to the House for further consideration.
SB 1156, sponsored by Sen. Wendy Rogers (R-LD7), would appropriate $20 million to reimburse cities, towns, and counties for costs associated with short-term detention holds for individuals unlawfully present in the United States.
“For years, Arizona has been dealing with the consequences of a border crisis created by the Biden administration,” Rogers said in a statement. “Now that President Trump has restored order and delivered the most secure border in modern history, we need to make sure our state is doing its part to support that progress. This funding helps local law enforcement manage detention responsibilities and ensures we are not backsliding.”
SB 1157 would provide $20 million to support the construction of supplemental fencing and barriers in high-crossing areas along Arizona’s southern border, according to the Senate Republican Caucus. It was also sponsored by Rogers.
“We know strong physical barriers work because we have seen it firsthand,” Rogers said. “President Trump proved that when you take border security seriously, crossings drop. Arizona is reinforcing that progress by investing in the areas where crossings have historically been the highest.”
SB 1457, sponsored by Sen. David Farnsworth (R-LD10), would expand the use of the state’s Advanced Air Mobility Fund to include border security operations, allowing for the purchase of aerial technology and the development of infrastructure to support surveillance and response efforts, with priority given to border counties.
“Maintaining a secure border takes more than policy, it takes the right tools in the field,” Farnsworth said. “This legislation supports law enforcement with advanced technology so they can respond in real time and keep Arizona communities safe.”
According to the caucus, the measures are intended to support local law enforcement, strengthen infrastructure at high-traffic crossings, and expand the tools available for border security operations.
Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.
