ATLANTA, Ga. (WGXA)– Lawmakers are working on focusing their attention on immigration laws within the state of Georgia.
This comes after the death of University of Georgia student Laken Riley who law enforcement says was murdered by an illegal immigrant.
Her father had some words to encourage senators,
My vision for every senator in this chamber is that you protect from illegal invasion
The Senate chamber passed House Bill 301 which would enforce a 2009 law that outlaws sanctuary counties and cities. Punishing them by revoking their state aid.
Senator Randy Robertson says cities accused of being sanctuary cities will be at risk of losing federal funding.
“If you go out there and you want to be a sanctuary city that violates Georgia law then you’re going to be held accountable for that”, said Robertson.
The bill also allows the removal of elected local officials and gives citizens the ability to sue the county or city.
However many lawmakers are against it, Senator Josh McLaurin says there is already a law in place that prohibits sanctuary cities so this bill is meant for other intentions.
“This bill is just what I would call a lawsuit bill this is a private right of action bill”, said McLaurin.
The bill passed with 33 yeas and 18 nays.
House Bill 1105 was also passed with 34 yeas and 19 nays. It would require local law enforcement to notify the US Department of Homeland Security if they suspect they have an illegal immigrant in custody.
Senator Jon Albers explained he doesn’t want people to think they are coming after immigrants and they are just going after those committing crimes.
“It is important that we are doing everything possible to follow the law at all levels to protect Georgians this is a public safety issue make no mistake and it specifically deals with criminals”, said Albers.
Both bills are now being sent back to the house chamber before final passage. This is the last week of this year’s legislative session thursday will be the last day a bill can become law. We will be here to bring you updates.
