A bill that would make illegal immigration a state crime — a top priority of State Auditor Shad White for the 2026 legislative session — is heading to the governor’s desk, White said.
White’s office said Mississippi taxpayers spend roughly $100 million each year on services for illegal immigrants. The office presented that figure as part of the auditor’s push for the legislation.
White said the measure would give law enforcement more leeway to cooperate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and would save taxpayers money.
The auditor said lawmakers backed the proposal after he made it a key legislative priority. The bill now awaits action by the governor, White said.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
