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 led the passage of legislation in the Michigan House on Thursday to prohibit local and county governments from adopting sanctuary policies. These policies are defined as local rules that prevent law enforcement from working with federal immigration authorities. Cavitt argues that such policies result in an increase in the number of illegal immigrants, including those with criminal backgrounds, seeking refuge from deportation.
During a speech on the House floor, Cavitt remarked, “This plan puts public safety and the rule of law first. These bills stop local governments from adopting sanctuary policies that block cooperation with federal immigration authorities and prioritize criminal aliens over their own citizens. The only place an illegal immigrant belongs in Michigan is on a bus back home.”
Recently, three illegal immigrants were apprehended in Houghton Lake related to a sexual assault case, leading to charges of criminal sexual conduct against one individual. A similar event occurred in Livingston County, where two illegal aliens were arrested for trying to meet a teenage girl for sex. In February, a member of the Tren de Aragua street gang was arrested by U.S. Border Patrol agents in Sault Ste. Marie.
The new legislation includes House Bills 4338, 4339, and 4342, which introduce the Sanctuary Policy Prohibition Act and the County Law Enforcement Protection Act. These measures would prevent municipalities from enforcing policies that restrict local law enforcement from collaborating with federal immigration bodies.
Cavitt further stated, “Local officials have no business protecting people who broke the law to be here, especially those committing further crimes. This legislation ensures law enforcement can do its job without interference, holds local governments accountable, and protects taxpayer dollars from funding lawlessness. This is common sense.”
Local or county governments must align their policies with state law within 60 days after these bills become law. Failing to comply could result in legal actions and financial repercussions, and statutory revenue-sharing payments might be withheld from sanctuary communities.
Alerts Sign-up