On Friday, November 15, 2024, Governor Kevin Stitt announced Oklahoma Commissioner of Public Safety Tim Tipton will lead the charge to expel those serving time in Oklahoma correctional facilities who are in the country illegally.

“The Oklahoma taxpayer should not be left holding the bill for President Biden’s open border policies,” said Governor Stitt. “As law and order returns to the White House, Oklahoma will lead the charge with a comprehensive plan to deport those who have committed crimes in Oklahoma while in the country illegally.

"I am still committed to finding ways to pursue state-based workforce visas for those who want to pursue the American dream, but we will not tolerate criminal activity in our state. I’m thankful for Commissioner Tipton and his willingness to develop a plan for Oklahoma which can also serve as a model for other states.”

Commissioner Tipton will consult with state, county, and local law enforcement as well as the Department of Corrections to create a strategic plan to address the presence of illegal immigrants who have committed crimes in our state.

Commissioner Tipton will deliver a proposed plan to the Governor no later than January 15th, 2025, and will consult with the Trump transition team and new director of Homeland Security to implement the plan upon President Trump’s inauguration.

“The safety of every Oklahoman is my top priority. We need an all-hands-on deck approach to ensure criminals who are here illegally don’t bring harm to Oklahomans,” said Commissioner Tipton. “Right now, Oklahoma taxpayers are paying to keep illegal immigrants incarcerated because the Biden administration has refused to enforce the law. This must end now. I look forward to working with law enforcement throughout the state as well as the Department of Corrections to enforce a zero-tolerance policy for crimes committed by illegal immigrants.”

Currently, the Department of Corrections houses 526 illegal immigrants in Oklahoma jails for criminal activity unrelated to their unlawful presence in the U.S. This costs the Oklahoma taxpayer roughly $36,000/day.