WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., has cosponsored legislation aimed at closing the gaps in the federal government’s enforcement of immigration law, including ending sanctuary cities in America. The proposal, titled the “Protecting American Lives Act,” S.1842, is authored by Sens. Jeff Sessions, R-Ala., and Ron Johnson, R-Wis.

“The recent tragedy in San Francisco serves as a clear example of the need for congressional action on so-called ‘sanctuary cities,’” Wicker said. “We should be promoting the effective enforcement of immigration laws across the country rather than standing by while some areas ignore those laws to suit their own agenda. This important legislation would make our communities safer.”

The bill would deny federal grant funding to any state or local authority that refuses to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement. It would also require local jurisdictions to share identifying information with the Department of Homeland Security regarding aliens in custody. The proposed legislation would establish a five-year minimum prison sentence for deported aliens who attempt to re-enter the United States illegally.

Last Congress, Wicker led a similar effort to deny federal funds and law enforcement grants to sanctuary cities.