Mississippi auditor puts illegal immigration on 2026 legislative agenda
State Auditor Shad White said making illegal immigration a state crime is a central element of his 2026 legislative agenda.
White said in a social media post that following his announcement the State Senate has passed a bill to make illegal immigration a state crime after years of blocking similar measures. White’s office said its audit found illegal immigration costs taxpayers up to $100 million a year.
The State Auditor’s office is responsible for auditing public funds and reporting on state finances. White framed the move as an effort to redirect what he called tax dollars toward Mississippians rather than undocumented immigrants, saying the legislation will help crack down on illegal immigration.
Immigration enforcement is primarily a federal responsibility, and proposals that change state-level criminal penalties often prompt legal and policy debate. White did not provide additional details about enforcement plans or the bill’s timeline in the post.
We will provide more information as it becomes available.
