MI cities, schools that don’t comply with immigration laws can’t get ‘pork,’ as lawmakers go around Whitmer

Michigan’s House of Representatives recently passed a contentious measure known as HR 19 that has caused quite a stir in the state. The bill, which was approved in a 56-50 vote along party lines, stipulates that municipalities and educational institutions that do not comply with certain immigration enforcement measures will be ineligible for earmarked funding.

According to House leaders, HR 19 is classified as a rule change rather than legislation, meaning it does not require Democratic Gov. Getchen Whitmer’s approval. The resolution states that any appropriations bill containing legislatively-directed spending items for municipalities or universities that subvert immigration enforcement or refuse to comply with federal measures will not be brought to a vote.

However, municipalities in question have the option to certify that their bylaws do not contain language that undermines immigration enforcement. This provision offers a potential way for these entities to still receive funding.

House Floor Leader Bryan Posthumus emphasized the importance of following the law in order to receive taxpayer money, stating, “We are committed to ensuring the safety of our communities and protecting the due process rights of our citizens.” House Speaker Matt Hall, who sponsored the legislation, echoed this sentiment by emphasizing that sanctuary jurisdictions will not receive funding for projects such as splash pads, Zen centers, or hip-hop academies.

Hall clarified that constitutional revenue sharing will still be upheld, but funding for certain projects will be contingent on compliance with immigration enforcement measures. He noted that leaders from both Republican- and Democratic-led towns have agreed to certify their compliance with the new rule.

In response to the passage of HR 19, Michigan’s House Democratic leader criticized the move as a Republican “power grab” and expressed concerns about the potential impact on communities across the state. However, House Speaker Hall defended the measure, stating that it reflects the will of the people of Michigan who do not want sanctuary jurisdictions in the state.

While Governor Whitmer did not provide a comment on the bill, she has previously taken a more moderate stance on illegal immigration, stating that undocumented immigrants should not receive state assistance.

As the controversy surrounding HR 19 continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how municipalities and educational institutions in Michigan will navigate the new requirements for earmarked funding. Stay tuned for further developments on this issue.