Immigration protections bill heads to Colorado governor's desk
DENVER (KDVR) — Colorado lawmakers have moved to pass a controversial immigration rights bill.
The bill's passage comes even after Colorado and Denver face a lawsuit from the Department of Justice over so-called sanctuary city and state laws.
Colorado House passes immigration protections after DOJ sues for 'sanctuary' policies
The bill is now headed to Governor Jared Polis' desk. The bill is drawing widespread support from the majority party, while the minority party is urging caution.
A bill that would require federal agents to obtain warrants to carry out immigrant raids in sensitive places is heading to the governor's desk. Representatives passed the bill on Saturday, Senators approved changes made in the House Monday morning. Democratic sponsors said it's important this bill passes now after the president made controversial remarks about due process this weekend.
'If the Constitution protects us all, then we in Colorado have the opportunity with this vote today to demonstrate and affirm that the Constitution does in fact protect us all. That due process actually does extend to everyone,' said Senator Julie Gonzales.
Republicans, on the other hand, said the bill goes too far and worry it could put a target on the state.
'It is my considered opinion and I will be a resolute and remaining no vote on this particular bill, that in fact this bill goes beyond due process. It has in it elements where you can wipe away a prior guilty plea. There are elements in this bill that provide privilege and advantage that I do not believe are appropriate. I will remain a no vote on 276,' said Senate Minority Leader Paul Lundeen.
DOJ sues Colorado, Denver for so-called 'sanctuary laws'
News came down that the federal Department of Justice had sued the state on Friday as representatives debated the bill. Attorneys for the government argue that laws in Colorado and Denver interfere with and discriminate against the federal government's enforcement of federal immigration law.
Governor Jared Polis has maintained that Colorado is not a sanctuary state. He and Denver Mayor Mike Johnston have said the state and city follow all local and federal laws. The governor did add that if courts find any Colorado law is not valid, then the state will follow the ruling.
The Governor's Office sent over a statement in reaction to the bill's passage:
'The Governor's Office has been working with legislators, as well as stakeholders, including law enforcement, throughout the process on SB25-276 to help ensure it doesn't interfere with our federal law enforcement partnerships. The State of Colorado is not a sanctuary state and works closely with federal and local law enforcement regularly to make Colorado safer. Governor Polis continues urging Congress to secure the border and do their job and pass comprehensive immigration reform.'
Spokesperson for the Office of the Governor
Lawmakers did remove a portion of the bill that would have stopped officers from having access to private areas of jails.
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