A new law mandating the collection of biometric data from undocumented immigrants in Alabama has officially taken effect, prompting praise from state leaders and pushback from civil liberties advocates.

Senate Bill 63, signed into law by Governor Kay Ivey, requires local law enforcement agencies to collect fingerprints and DNA samples from undocumented immigrants in their custody before they are released. The samples are to be submitted to the Alabama State Law Enforcement Agency and the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences for entry into state databases.

According to Ivey, the law is part of a broader effort to enhance public safety and help law enforcement better identify individuals with criminal backgrounds.

“Alabama is taking steps to protect our communities from impacts on publ

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