SB 1099 - Higher penalties for illegal aliens

SB 1099 increases criminal penalties for felony offenses committed by individuals who are in the country illegally. Judges must determine and record this status during trial if proven beyond a reasonable doubt. When that happens, the punishment is automatically raised to the next higher level, and certain serious crimes could carry a mandatory 15-year minimum sentence. By imposing harsher penalties, the bill aims to deter unlawful border crossings that result in criminal behavior, reducing long-term burdens on law enforcement, courts, and correctional facilities. It also prioritizes safety for law-abiding citizens and helps limit taxpayer-funded services being consumed by repeat offenders who are not legally present.