Steve Cortes, CNN Political Commentator (left) & Cam Cavitt, Michigan House Representative (right) | Facebook
Steve Cortes, CNN Political Commentator (left) & Cam Cavitt, Michigan House Representative (right) | Facebook
State Representative Cam Cavitt testified before the House Government Operations Committee on Thursday in support of legislation aimed at prohibiting sanctuary policies in local and county governments across Michigan. The proposal responds to more than 20 Michigan communities, encompassing over 5.5 million residents, that have adopted "sanctuary" or "welcoming" policies which impede federal immigration activities.
According to Cavitt, these sanctuary communities attract immigrants who are in the country illegally, including gang members and traffickers. “Local officials just don’t realize how dangerous these sanctuary policies are for Michigan,” Cavitt stated, representing Cheboygan. He suggested that while officials may intend to assist people, such policies could inadvertently harbor criminals.
Recent incidents highlighted by Cavitt include the February arrest of a Tren de Aragua gang member in Sault Ste. Marie by U.S. Border Patrol agents. In another case in January, two Honduran nationals were taken into custody during a sex crime sting. There was also an arrest involving an individual attempting to defraud a Harrison woman with fake currency.
Cavitt argued that despite federal crackdowns on illegal immigration, local enforcement agencies frequently encounter illegal immigrants. He described sanctuary cities as providing protection for individuals seeking to evade federal authorities, claiming it is "embarrassing and disgraceful" and calling for concerted efforts to remove these individuals from the country.
The proposed legislation, House Bills 4338, 4339, and 4342, seeks to establish the Sanctuary Policy Prohibition Act and County Law Enforcement Protection Act. The bills aim to stop municipalities from implementing policies that deter local law enforcement from collaborating with federal immigration officials.
If enacted, local or county governments would need to align their policies with state law within 60 days, or they may face legal action and financial penalties. Cavitt emphasized that his plan would not require local authorities to act as immigration agents but would prevent them from obstructing federal enforcement, ensuring consistency and enhancing public safety.
The legislation would also terminate statutory revenue-sharing funds for sanctuary communities. Having passed the House Oversight Committee, the bills are poised for consideration by the full House.
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