H.R.2931 - Save SBA from Sanctuary Cities Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2931, the "Save SBA from Sanctuary Cities Act of 2025," directs the Small Business Administration (SBA) Administrator to relocate certain SBA offices located in sanctuary jurisdictions. A sanctuary jurisdiction is defined as a state or political subdivision that restricts information sharing with federal authorities regarding immigration status. The bill mandates relocation within 120 days of a determination that an office is in a sanctuary jurisdiction, with penalties for non-compliance, including potential cessation of operations and removal of office heads.
Expected Effects
The bill could lead to the relocation of SBA offices from areas deemed "sanctuary jurisdictions" to other locations, potentially disrupting services to small businesses in those areas. It may also create operational challenges for the SBA and impact the agency's ability to serve diverse communities. The definition of 'sanctuary jurisdiction' could be subject to interpretation and legal challenges.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially strengthens enforcement of federal immigration laws.
- May ensure SBA resources are not used in jurisdictions that are perceived to be non-compliant with federal law.
- Could lead to increased cooperation between state and federal entities on immigration matters.
- May incentivize jurisdictions to change their policies regarding information sharing with federal authorities.
- The bill aims to ensure that federal resources are aligned with federal law enforcement priorities.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Could disrupt services to small businesses in sanctuary jurisdictions, potentially hindering economic growth in those areas.
- May create operational challenges and increased costs for the SBA due to relocation expenses.
- Could be perceived as discriminatory or punitive towards communities with sanctuary policies.
- May face legal challenges based on federalism or equal protection grounds.
- The definition of 'sanctuary jurisdiction' is broad and could be subject to varying interpretations, leading to inconsistent application.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutionality is debatable. Congress has the power to regulate immigration (Article I, Section 8) and to establish agencies like the SBA. However, the Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, and some may argue that this bill infringes on states' rights to set their own law enforcement policies. The bill could also face challenges under the equal protection clause if it is shown to disproportionately harm specific communities.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).