Madam Speaker. I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise in strong opposition to H.R. 3009. the Enforce the Law for Sanctuary Cities Act. This thoroughly flawed measure is a blatant attempt by most of the majority to insert its antiimmigrant status agenda into local policing initiatives. It does this by prohibiting State and local governments from receiving critical criminal justice funds if they have policies that prioritize public safety and community policing over Federal immigration enforcement. The bill absolutely makes no sense because. rather than improving public safety. it will achieve the complete opposite. and that is not just my conclusion. Law enforcement agencies from across the United States and numerous organizationssuch as the Major County Sheriffs Association. the Fraternal Order of Police. the Law Enforcement Immigration Task Force. the United States Conference of Mayors. and the National League of Citiesall oppose this bill. In effect. this bill would punish law enforcement officers by withholding the funds they need to do their jobs. and it would require States and localities to prioritize Federal immigration enforcement ahead of enhancing public safety. Reactionary proposals such as this legislation will only make our communities less safe because immigrants will not report crimes or otherwise cooperate with the police if they fear they or their family members may be asked for their immigration status. As a result. crimes will go unsolved and unpunished while criminals are free to victimize more people. In addition. withholding crucial United States Department of Justice funds from local communities will not lower crime.
Identified stereotypes
Immigrants will not report crimes if they fear deportation.