Senators Tim Scott (R-SC), Ted Cruz (R-TX), John Cornyn (R-TX) and other Senate Republicans have introduced a bill that would end taxpayer-funded grants to sanctuary cities and permit local law enforcement to work with federal immigration authorities to handle dangerous illegal immigrants.
“Sanctuary cities have emboldened criminals and endangered American citizens, and it is wrong that our taxpayers are being forced to foot the bill for this reprehensible policy,” said Sen. Scott. “This legislation will bring commonsense back to the table by eliminating taxpayer grants to these criminal safe havens and empowering law enforcement to protect our communities.”
According to a summary of the bill, the “Stop Dangerous Sanctuary Cities Act” would ensure that state and local law enforcement officers are able to work with federal officials to apprehend violent criminals and suspected terrorists who are illegally present in the United States.
“So-called ‘sanctuary cities’ refuse to enforce the laws on the books and release violent criminals in our country illegally—including rapists and murders—who go on to prey on both American citizens and the immigrant community,” said Sen. Cruz.
“Moreover, many of these sanctuary jurisdictions actively prevent state and local law enforcement from coordinating with their federal counterparts,” Cruz added. “They release murderers, rapists, and burglars who end up preying on the community. That is wrong. The American people, and Texas communities in particular, are tired of seeing our laws flouted and the crime that often accompanies illegal immigration. These jurisdictions need to be held accountable, and I will do everything I can to enforce our immigration laws.”
