Rep. Baird joins leaders to advocate stronger state action on immigration

State Rep. Beau Baird (R-Greencastle) joined Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita, Gov. Mike Braun, and national security experts Tom Homan and Chad Wolf at Tuesday's Fairness for Hoosiers: The Need for State Action on Immigration briefing at the Statehouse.

Baird said the event focused on strengthening cooperation between state, local and federal agencies to enhance public safety and ensure consistent enforcement of immigration laws. Leaders at the briefing answered questions from attendees and highlighted the need for reform to address gaps in current federal immigration enforcement.

“Every state is a border state and Indiana is no exception. Supporting policies that enforce the law and help secure the border is commonsense," Baird said. "Indiana needs to remain a leader on this issue and I was honored to join fellow state leaders, Attorney General Todd Rokita, Tom Homan, Chad Wolf and others for an informative discussion on how we can better coordinate with the federal government on these efforts."

Earlier this year, Baird supported House Enrolled Act 1393, a new law to improve coordination between local law enforcement and federal immigration agencies. He also supported House Bill 1531 to require local agencies to honor federal immigration detainer requests, grant immunity to officers who comply and ensure accountability when jurisdictions refuse to cooperate.

Baird said while HB 1531 did not advance during the 2025 legislative session, the issue remains a top priority moving forward. He added that this legislation is part of Indiana’s effort to strengthen border security and protect communities from individuals who pose a threat to public safety.