State Representatives J.D. Prescott and Andrew Ireland visited the United States southern border in Arizona to meet with law enforcement and observe efforts to address illegal immigration and drug trafficking, according to a May 4 statement.
The visit aimed to provide the lawmakers with firsthand insight into federal actions at the border, as well as explore ways Indiana can contribute to deporting illegal aliens and stopping the flow of fentanyl and other drugs.
Prescott said he and Ireland received updates from Arizona sheriffs, local ranchers, and U.S. Border Patrol agents during their tour of the wall and processing facilities. “Witnessing operations firsthand in Arizona showed real progress is being made at the federal level to secure the border,” Prescott said. “In Indiana, we’ve taken steps to support that mission by passing the Indiana Fairness Act, ensuring a unified approach to enforcement and protecting Hoosier families.”
Ireland highlighted that issues related to illegal immigration affect all states regardless of their proximity to the border. He referenced data from American First Policy Institute indicating that illegal aliens cost Indiana $921 million in 2023, with each individual costing $4,451. “President Trump has delivered real results where previous administrations failed, securing the border and stopping the flow of illegal aliens and poison fentanyl killing Americans,” Ireland said. “Indiana stands shoulder-to-shoulder with him. We will keep leading on this critical issue by backing our law enforcement 100%, honoring ICE detainers, removing criminal illegals and putting America First—always prioritizing the safety and prosperity of Hoosier families over lawbreakers.”
During Indiana’s 2026 legislative session, lawmakers passed Senate Enrolled Act 76—the Indiana Fairness Act—which was championed by Prescott with support from Ireland; it requires local governments in Indiana comply with federal immigration detainer requests while prohibiting restrictions on enforcing federal immigration law. The legislators also supported House Enrolled Act 1200 targeting illegal immigrants holding Commercial Driver’s Licenses in Indiana.
In October 2025, both representatives joined White House Border Czar Tom Homan and former Department of Homeland Security Acting Secretary Chad Wolf for discussions on improving collaboration between state officials and federal agencies regarding border security.
For more information about SEA 76 or HEA 1200 or other efforts related to border security in Indiana, readers are directed to iga.in.gov.
