By State Sen. Jeff Raatz (R-Richmond)
I joined several legislators from Indiana and Texas to tour the U.S. border last fall. It was an eye-opening experience, and I am thankful for the work this current administration in Washington has done to essentially close the border. At the time of our visit, arranged by Texas State Representative Tim Oliverson, the November election was over and crossings had slowed dramatically. Texas State police have done an exceptional job and take pride in securing the border.
The failures of the previous administration at the border, however, made every state a border state.
To keep Hoosiers safe, during the 2025 legislative session I supported bills like House Enrolled Act 1393, which requires law enforcement to alert ICE if there is probable cause to believe a person who has been arrested is here illegally, and House Enrolled Act 1114, which makes it a crime to register a vehicle or get a license on behalf of someone who cannot legally drive.
I also worked to address illegal immigration with my fellow lawmakers during the 2024 session by co-authoring Senate Enrolled Act 181, which gives the attorney general the power to sue local governments and college campuses that refuse to comply with federal immigration law. This law prevents our towns and cities from becoming sanctuary cities and ensures Hoosiers are safe.
It is of the utmost importance that we work with the federal government to secure our borders and prevent bad actors from slipping in illegally. America provides a better life and freedom for many people, but we must ensure those who come here do so legally and are properly vetted.
Constituents can reach out to me with any questions or concerns they may have by filling out a "Contact Me" form on the IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/Raatz website or by phone at 800-382-9467.
PHOTO CAPTION: Raatz joins several other Indiana legislators for a tour of the southern U.S. border last fall.
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State Sen. Jeff Raatz (R-Richmond) represents Senate District 27, which includes
Henry, Union and Wayne counties, and portions of Franklin County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
