January 15, 2025
Combating the Impacts of Illegal Immigration in Arizona
Key Takeaways
According to a study by the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR), illegal aliens and their children cost Arizona $3.2 billion in 2023, with each illegal alien costing the state $5,230.
Another study by FAIR concludes that Arizona is supporting illegal aliens by allocating $1.4 billion for education, $1.2 billion for healthcare and other general services, and $631 million for police and corrections.
Arizona had 1,807 known human trafficking victims between 2019 and 2023.
In 2022, Arizona had 27.4 opioid-related deaths per 100,000 people.
In 2022, Arizona had an illegal alien population of 250,000.
According to Rice University, Mexico saw nearly $60 billion enter its country via remittances in 2022.
INTERNATIONAL WIRE TRANSFER FEES WILL FINANCIALLY TARGET ILLEGAL ALIENS AND FUND LAW ENFORCEMENT
Illegal alien and narcotic trafficking networks often exploit wire transfer services to move money abroad, taking advantage of their less stringent oversight compared to banks. Arizona could counter this by implementing a fee on international wire transfers. This approach would generate revenue without increasing taxes while also deterring illegal activities. Legal residents who make international wire transfers can reclaim the fee through tax credits when they file their annual tax returns. The state could use the additional funds to address the unfunded costs related to illegal immigration and enhance law enforcement efforts.
The America First Policy Institute Supports this Policy at the State Level Because …
It deters illegal immigration and trafficking networks. Imposing a fee on outgoing international wire transfers makes it less desirable for illegal aliens or smuggling and trafficking networks to remain in the state. This added cost imposed on unlawful conduct could disincentivize these enterprises from operating in the state.
It could fund law enforcement. Law enforcement is often outmatched by well-funded cartels. The funds generated by this fee can be earmarked to enhance law enforcement efforts against smugglers and traffickers and keep communities safe.
It recoups untaxed income. In many instances, the wages illegal aliens receive working unlawfully in the country are untaxed income, which financially harms states. This fee partially recoups some of the lost state revenue caused by illegal immigration in the state.
Arizona should adopt a fee on international wire transfers to protect its citizens and economy!