During the same event at the Harry Reid International Airport innovation checkpoint, the Secretary discussed immigration enforcement partnerships and detainee treatment.

Asked about state partnerships, the Secretary said Nevada has participated in a 287(g) program that authorizes local law enforcement to assist federal agencies with immigration enforcement in addition to their usual criminal-law duties. "Nevada has partnered with us in a program called 287(g)," the Secretary said, describing the program as one way to coordinate local and federal enforcement.

On detainee care, the Secretary said individuals who are detained receive medical care "whatever they would need as far as keeping them safe and healthy until it's time for them to return back home to their home country." He said individuals here illegally may be detained but also may choose a voluntary return option, and stated, "we will give them 1000 dollars. We will buy their plane ticket and they can go home."

The Secretary framed the department's priority as focusing on "the worst of the worst" — violent criminals, trafficking networks and drug operations — and said litigation and court decisions can affect enforcement operations. The remarks were statements of departmental policy and practice; the event record does not show a change in law or a formal new policy document accompanying the comments.

No local official or legislative action was recorded in the transcript to implement or alter immigration programs at the event.