State Representative Jesse Petrea, serving as chairman of the House Human Relations and Aging Committee, formally introduced a new initiative involving several Georgia lawmakers. This initiative, named the Pro-Enforcement Immigration Caucus, aims to enhance immigration enforcement, assist law enforcement agencies, and uphold legal integrity throughout the state.
“Today, I am honored to join my fellow Georgia lawmakers in officially launching the Pro-Enforcement Immigration Caucus,” stated Chairman Petrea. He emphasized that the caucus prioritizes community safety, security, and well-being above all.
In addition to Rep. Petrea, the caucus comprises various members, including State Representative Houston Gaines, who serves as the House Majority Caucus Vice Chairman; State Representative Ron Stephens, chairing the House Economic Development and Tourism Committee; and State Representative Steven Sainz, who oversees the House Interstate Cooperation Committee. Other participants include State Representatives Gary Richardson, Kimberly New, Bethany Ballard, Rey Martinez, Rob Clifton, Mike Cameron, and State Senator Rick Williams.
Steven Schrank, serving as the Special Agent in Charge for Georgia and Alabama under Homeland Security Investigations, attended the launch event. He provided insights on the critical role state collaboration plays in immigration-related investigations and enforcement. Schrank elaborated on the impact of House Bill 1105, passed during the 2024 legislative session, which he claimed had enabled unprecedented cooperation between U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and local law enforcement in Georgia, enhancing the safety of residents.
Agent Schrank also highlighted recent cases involving workforce and human rights violations, referencing arrests in locations such as Cartersville and Savannah.
The newly formed caucus intends to continue advocating for legislative actions that foster better information sharing, empower law enforcement, and rectify policy loopholes that may permit illegal actions to persist.
