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Pallone Votes against Dangerous Bills that would Punish NJ Communities, Law Enforcement and Immigrants

June 29, 2017

Washington - Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) voted against H.R. 3003 and H.R. 3004, which would implement policies that endanger our communities and immigrants. Instead of positively reforming our immigration policies, these laws would unduly punish law-abiding immigrants and undermine local law enforcement officials.

"My Republican colleagues often talk about states’ rights, but this dangerous legislation would bully our local communities and law enforcement, while persecuting immigrants,” said Pallone. “By withholding DHS and other law enforcement funding for communities, these bills will make our cities more dangerous, not safer. I will do everything within my power to work to protect New Jersey’s local governments and leaders who have based their decisions involving immigration on compassion and the practical needs of their communities. I am confident that the people of New Jersey will not accept being targeted by Republicans in Congress and their own President.”

H.R. 3003 requires State and local authorities to participate in Federal immigration enforcement by stripping critical funds from communities and counties that choose not to comply. This bill further expands DHS’s authority to issue detainers, potentially violating the Fourth Amendment's protections "against unreasonable searches and seizures".

H.R. 3004 increases punishments for individuals with prior removal orders with no exceptions. This includes the detention of asylum seekers or victims of human trafficking who voluntarily present themselves at the border to request protection. These harsh punishments are still implemented even if the individuals have no prior arrest records or convictions.

Issues:Immigration