‘Newsom-proof California’: Lawmaker proposes bill to strengthen fight against illegal immigration, trafficking
California Republican Assemblymember Kate Sanchez is taking a stand against what she sees as a potential loophole in the state’s “sanctuary state” policies that may be protecting criminal illegal immigrants involved in sex trafficking minors. Sanchez is planning to introduce a bill that would eliminate unnecessary restrictions for local law enforcement to cooperate with federal authorities in order to target those accused or convicted of sex trafficking minors.
In an interview with Fox News Digital, Sanchez explained that current restrictions in the California Values Act (SB 54) prevent local law enforcement agencies from fully cooperating with federal immigration authorities. While there are exceptions in SB 54 for individuals convicted of certain serious or violent crimes, sex trafficking may not always be classified as a violent felony under California law. This loophole could allow convicted sex traffickers who are illegal immigrants to remain in the U.S. after serving their sentence.
Sanchez’s proposed bill aims to remove this restriction and allow law enforcement to communicate more openly with federal authorities in cases involving sex trafficking. She believes that closing this loophole is crucial in protecting vulnerable victims and ensuring that justice is served.
However, Sanchez faces an uphill battle in the heavily Democratic state legislature, where lawmakers are focused on passing bills to strengthen California’s legal defense against the Trump administration’s immigration policies. Governor Gavin Newsom has proposed allocating $25 million to nonprofit organizations to defend illegal immigrants from deportation, but there are concerns about whether these funds could also be used for criminal illegal immigrants.
Despite the challenges she may face, Sanchez remains determined to advocate for the protection of victims and the innocence of children. She believes that the tide is turning in Sacramento and hopes that federal counterparts will also support her efforts to crack down on sex trafficking and hold perpetrators accountable.
As Sanchez pushes forward with her bill, she emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the safety and well-being of all Californians. She believes that the legislature should focus on “fireproofing” the state and ensuring that justice is served for victims of sex trafficking. While the political landscape may be challenging, Sanchez remains committed to her mission and is hopeful for positive change in the fight against sex trafficking in California.
