Louisiana is suing the Biden-Harris administration, claiming that its immigration policies allowed an illegal immigrant carrying a rare form of tuberculosis to enter the state and expose hundreds to the disease. Attorney General Liz Murrill’s lawsuit accuses DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas of neglecting health protocols, leading to a public health crisis.
The lawsuit states that the migrant, who entered the country illegally from China, has an “aggressive” and “drug-resistant” strain of tuberculosis, creating what the state calls an “emergency situation.” The suit names DHS, ICE, and the specific detention facilities involved, holding them accountable for failing to properly screen detainees.
Gov. Jeff Landry (R-LA) sought to assure residents that “at this time, we have no indication that the public is in any danger.” According to the lawsuit, the migrant crossed into California illegally in July and was transported by DHS to Alexandria, LA, with a group of 100 others. The infected individual was later moved, along with 40 others, to Richwood Correction Center in Monroe.
Medical tests at the correction center revealed a “highly positive” result for TB. The state claims that some of those transported alongside the infected migrant have since been deported, relocated, or released, potentially increasing the risk of spreading the disease. Louisiana insists that ICE implement health screenings before releasing detainees to avoid similar incidents.
Republican leaders in Louisiana criticize the Biden-Harris administration’s approach, arguing that overcrowded facilities and lax immigration policies are to blame. Vice President Kamala Harris has come under fire for her mixed messages—calling for stricter controls while promoting amnesty.
The lawsuit emphasizes the health risks associated with the administration’s policies, calling for immediate action to prevent similar health emergencies in the future. Louisiana officials insist that thorough health checks and stricter enforcement are necessary to protect the public.
