Bills of Congress by U.S. Congress

S.685 - Stop Dangerous Sanctuary Cities Act (119th Congress)

Summary

The Stop Dangerous Sanctuary Cities Act aims to ensure cooperation between state and local law enforcement and federal officials regarding individuals illegally present in the United States. It defines "sanctuary jurisdictions" as those that restrict information sharing or compliance with federal detainers. The bill proposes to make sanctuary jurisdictions ineligible for certain federal funds, specifically Economic Development Administration grants and Community Development Block Grants.

Expected Effects

If enacted, the bill would likely lead to increased cooperation between local and federal law enforcement regarding immigration enforcement. Sanctuary jurisdictions may face financial pressure to alter their policies to remain eligible for federal funding. This could also lead to legal challenges regarding federal overreach and potential violations of individual rights.

Potential Benefits

  • Enhanced public safety through increased cooperation in apprehending suspected criminals.
  • Potential reduction in crime rates in communities perceived as "sanctuaries".
  • Increased efficiency in enforcing federal immigration laws.
  • Provides legal protection for state and local law enforcement officers acting on federal detainers.
  • Reallocation of federal funds to jurisdictions that comply with federal immigration enforcement.

Potential Disadvantages

  • Potential erosion of trust between immigrant communities and local law enforcement.
  • Increased risk of civil rights violations due to expanded enforcement powers.
  • Financial strain on "sanctuary jurisdictions" due to loss of federal funding.
  • Possible legal challenges based on federal overreach and the Tenth Amendment.
  • May discourage victims and witnesses of crimes from cooperating with law enforcement due to fear of deportation.

Constitutional Alignment

The bill's constitutionality is debatable. Proponents may argue it aligns with the federal government's power to enforce immigration laws (Article I, Section 8). Opponents may argue it infringes on states' rights under the Tenth Amendment by compelling them to enforce federal law. Additionally, concerns may arise regarding potential violations of the Fourth Amendment (unreasonable search and seizure) and Fifth Amendment (due process) rights of individuals detained under federal detainers.

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).