Laurel Highlands Today

Rep. Ryan Warner (R-Fayette) has introduced legislation that would prevent municipalities and counties in Pennsylvania from designating themselves as "sanctuary cities." The aim of the legislation is to combat the challenges that come with illegal immigration and protect the safety of citizens legally residing in communities.

Warner highlighted the record numbers of illegal immigrants crossing the nation's borders, with an estimated 300,000 migrants processed in December alone, the highest monthly figure ever recorded. He emphasized the need for collaboration at the federal, state, and local levels to address illegal immigration and expressed concern that communities granting sanctuary status undermine these efforts.

"A sanctuary city is one in which mayors and elected officials prevent their police from honoring immigration detainers," Warner explained. "This misguided attempt at preserving 'human rights' ultimately threatens the safety of citizens legally residing in their communities."

Warner emphasized that Pennsylvania and the United States welcome individuals who wish to become American citizens through legal immigration processes. He called for a firm stance against illegal immigration out of respect for both immigrants and American citizens.

House Bill 1840, the legislation introduced by Warner, not only prohibits the designation of sanctuary cities but also requires law enforcement officers who have reasonable cause to believe an individual being arrested is not legally present in the United States to notify the appropriate Immigration and Customs Enforcement office. Additionally, the bill grants legal standing to any person injured to sue a municipality or county that releases an individual with a detainer without making a good faith effort to contact the proper immigration authorities.

The legislation has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee for consideration. Media Contact Patricia Hippler provided information on behalf of Representative Ryan Warner.

This legislation aims to address the challenges posed by illegal immigration and prevent municipalities and counties in Pennsylvania from designating themselves as sanctuary cities. It highlights the need for collaboration at various levels to combat illegal immigration and protect the safety of citizens. The bill not only prohibits sanctuary city designations but also requires law enforcement officers to notify immigration authorities and grants legal standing to individuals injured due to the release of individuals with detainers. The bill is now under consideration by the House Judiciary Committee.

To learn more, click on this link: https://www.repwarner.com/News/33365/Latest-News/Warner-Legislation-Aims-to-Stop-%E2%80%98Sanctuary-City%E2%80%99-Designation-