A proposed bill in Mississippi aims to establish a bounty hunter program that would reward individuals for assisting in the deportation of undocumented immigrants. House Bill 1484, introduced by Republican state Rep. Justin Keen, would create the Mississippi Illegal Alien Certified Bounty Hunter Program, offering registered bounty hunters $1,000 for each successful deportation.

Keen emphasizes the bill's focus on community safety, citing concerns about individuals entering the country illegally and committing crimes. He referenced the Trump administration's prioritization of deportations and framed the bill as supporting this agenda.

The program's funding would be allocated by the state legislature and managed by the state treasurer. The goal, according to Keen, is to foster cooperation between law enforcement and citizens in identifying undocumented immigrants, while also reducing the financial burden on Mississippi taxpayers associated with illegal immigration.

This bill aligns with the Trump administration's emphasis on stricter immigration enforcement. DeSoto County District Attorney Matthew Barton expressed support for the bill, highlighting the administration's executive orders targeting illegal immigration and cartels. He views the legislation as empowering local communities to contribute to federal efforts in protecting citizens. Barton underscored the importance of secure borders and prioritizing the safety of Mississippians while acknowledging the role of legal immigration in America.