Arizona proposes $50 million boost for border security

Arizona could significantly increase its funding for border security in the upcoming state budget. The state House of Representatives has passed a proposal to raise the budget for fighting border-related crimes to $50 million. This is a major increase from the $17 million allocated last year. Republican state Rep. Quang Nguyen emphasized that this funding would help law enforcement tackle issues like drug trafficking and human smuggling. He highlighted the importance of community safety and criticized a lenient approach to crime. Budget discussions will take place between Republican leaders and Democratic Governor Katie Hobbs. The governor's office has indicated that funding increases for border security could be part of the final budget agreement. Her initial budget proposal includes about $23 million for border issues, which may be adjusted further. The new funding is partly in response to Prop. 314, a voter-approved law making illegal entry into Arizona a state crime. However, this law is currently challenged in court. Critics worry it could lead to racial profiling. Democratic lawmakers have expressed concern over using state funds for border security, arguing that the federal government should cover these costs. One Democratic representative did support the bill, citing a commitment to border security. Overall, there is a push to address drug-related crime as border encounters decrease.