New GOP proposal unshackles victims of sanctuary policies to demand accountability
Victims of sanctuary policies may soon have the ability to seek legal recourse against state, county, and local governments that have implemented these controversial policies. Rep. Darrell Issa, a Republican from California, has proposed the Sanctuary City Accountability Act (SCAA), which would allow individuals across the country to sue over policies that hinder local law enforcement from cooperating with federal immigration laws.
Issa argues that sanctuary cities have long flouted federal law and endangered American citizens by shielding illegal immigrants from the consequences of their crimes. The SCAA aims to shift the balance of power in favor of American citizens and hold criminal illegal immigrants accountable for their actions.
The proposed legislation would enable victims and their families to take legal action against sanctuary jurisdictions where crimes were committed by illegal immigrants as a direct result of these policies. The bill is expected to go through the House Judiciary Committee, of which Issa is a senior member.
According to the text of the bill, sanctuary policies are defined as those that restrict Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detainer compliance and deny ICE access to interview incarcerated aliens. The SCAA is designed to complement the Clear Law Enforcement for Criminal Alien Removal (CLEAR) Act, which would make it a federal law for local authorities to collaborate with the federal government on immigration enforcement issues.
The push for the SCAA comes in the wake of San Diego County’s recent decision to uphold its “super sanctuary” policy, despite efforts to repeal it. Republican Supervisor Jim Desmond expressed disappointment over the failed repeal vote, emphasizing the importance of removing criminals from communities to ensure the safety of law-abiding residents.
Recent legislative changes, such as the Laken Riley Act, have also aimed to address crimes committed by illegal immigrants. This act directs the Department of Homeland Security to detain illegal immigrants facing charges or convictions for various crimes, including burglary, assault, and offenses resulting in death or serious bodily harm to others.
As the debate over sanctuary policies continues to unfold, Rep. Issa’s proposed legislation could provide a path for victims to seek justice and hold governments accountable for their immigration enforcement practices. The SCAA represents a significant step towards addressing the complex issues surrounding sanctuary cities and ensuring the safety and security of all Americans.
