A new law mandating the collection of biometric data from undocumented immigrants in Alabama has officially taken effect, prompting praise from state leaders and pushback from civil liberties advocates.
Senate Bill 63, signed into law by Governor Kay Ivey, requires local law enforcement agencies to collect fingerprints and DNA samples from undocumented immigrants in their custody before they are released. The samples are to be submitted to the Alabama State Law Enforcement Agency and the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences for entry into state databases.
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According to Ivey, the law is part of a broader effort to enhance public safety and help law enforcement better identify individuals with criminal backgrounds.
“Alabama is taking steps to protect our communities from impacts on public safety and the integrity of our elections,” she said while signing the measure.
The law was sponsored by Senator Lance Bell and passed with bipartisan support in the Legislature. Supporters of the bill argue that it closes loopholes in existing enforcement practices and ensures a more consistent method of identifying undocumented immigrants who come into contact with the legal system.
Critics, however, say the law raises significant concerns about civil liberties and government overreach.
“The collection and retention of DNA and fingerprints from individuals solely based on their immigration status creates a dangerous surveillance system that disproportionately affects immigrant communities,” the American Civil Liberties Union said in a public statement. “It expands government tracking of personal information without adequate legal justification, violating fundamental civil liberties.”
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Another point of contention is the funding mechanism. Enforcement of the law will be supported through the introduction of new court fees, which critics say will shift the financial burden onto all Alabama residents. Opponents also argue that because federal agencies like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) already collect biometric data, the state measure may be duplicative and unnecessary.
Despite the controversy, the law is now in force and will be implemented by law enforcement agencies statewide. Its long-term impacts—on both public safety and civil rights—remain to be seen.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
