Jefferson Reporter

U.S. Senators Katie Britt and Thom Tillis, along with several Republican colleagues, have introduced the Justice for Victims of Sanctuary Cities Act. This legislation aims to address sanctuary policies and seek justice for victims and their families affected by these jurisdictions.

Senator Britt expressed concerns about sanctuary cities, stating, "Radical sanctuary cities give criminal illegal aliens a safe haven at the expense of the safety and security of American citizens and our communities." She emphasized the commitment of Senate Republicans to work with the Trump Administration on restoring immigration enforcement policies.

The proposed act would allow individuals who are victims of serious crimes such as murder or rape to take legal action against states or political subdivisions that fail to honor immigration detainer requests from the Department of Homeland Security.

Senator Tillis highlighted issues in North Carolina and beyond where local jurisdictions have ignored detainer requests by ICE agents. He stated, "For far too long, we have watched local jurisdictions in North Carolina and across the country ignore the lawful notification and detainer requests made by ICE agents and instead release dangerous criminals back into their communities, putting innocent lives at risk."

The legislation also proposes that states must waive immunity to receive certain federal grants. The introduction follows recent legislative activities, including Senator Britt's Laken Riley Act passing both chambers of Congress.

In addition to this bill, Senator Britt has recently introduced the WALL Act, which seeks $25 billion to complete a wall on the southern border without increasing taxes or national debt. It aims to fund construction through closing loopholes and eliminating benefits for those illegally present in the U.S., with potential savings estimated at $33 billion over ten years according to a 2018 report by the Joint Committee on Taxation.