Oklahoma Governor Invites Mexican Diplomat to Craft Immigration Policy, Contradicting New Law

Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt has invited a Mexican diplomat to discuss crafting state labor and immigration policy, despite recently signing House Bill 4156 (HB 4156) into law, which criminalizes illegal immigration. The new law, set to take effect on July 1, grants state law enforcement officers the authority to be in the United States.

Why this matters: The governor's contradictory actions have significant implications for the state's economy and labor market, as well as the lives of undocumented immigrants and their families. The outcome of these discussions could set a precedent for other states to follow, influencing the national conversation on immigration reform.

Under HB 4156, a first-time conviction would lead to a misdemeanor charge of up to one year in county jail and a $500 fine, while a second-time conviction would result in a felony charge of up to two years in county jail and a $1,000 fine. Governor Stitt has downplayed concerns about the law, stating, "I'm trying to alleviate some fear... if you're doing things the right way, then I don't think you have a lot to worry about here in Oklahoma."

Attorney General Gentner Drummond has set up a task force to address concerns about undocumented workers who pay taxes using an individual identification number (ITIN) being arrested. Governor Stitt has also expressed his desire to "make sure that we're promoting Oklahoma" and is open to finding ways to support undocumented workers, saying, "I set up a task force so that Oklahoma can do their own workforce visas."

The invitation to the Mexican diplomat comes as a surprise, given the recent signing of HB 4156, which has sparked concerns about the impact on undocumented immigrants and their families. The move has raised questions about the governor's stance on immigration and his willingness to work with foreign diplomats to craft policy.

Governor Stitt acknowledged that the bill may harm people living in Oklahoma who contribute to the state's economy, expressing sympathy for "working families in Oklahoma that were very fearful of this." He proposed finding ways to increase work visas, either through the federal government or state-issued visas, stating, "Because if you're going to be paying taxes and working hard and you're going to be part of the Oklahoma economy and our society and you want to become an American, we need more workforce."

The law has sparked concerns about labor shortages in Oklahoma, particularly in key employment sectors. Governor Stitt's proposal to increase work visas aims to address these concerns and support the state's economy. As the effective date of HB 4156 approaches, the governor's actions and the outcome of discussions with the Mexican diplomat will be closely watched.

Key Takeaways

• Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt invites Mexican diplomat to discuss labor and immigration policy.
• HB 4156, signed into law, criminalizes illegal immigration, sparking concerns for undocumented immigrants.
• First-time conviction under HB 4156: misdemeanor, up to 1 year in jail, $500 fine.
• Gov. Stitt proposes increasing work visas to address labor shortages and support economy.
• Discussions with Mexican diplomat may set precedent for other states' immigration policies.