The Kentucky Senate has easily passed immigration-related legislation proponents say helps ensure local, state and federal law enforcement agencies are in full cooperation. Opponents contend the measure isn’t needed and could create a chilling effect in communities with larger immigrant populations.
Senate Bill 1, viewed as a priority in the GOP-controlled chamber, passed 28 to 10. It prohibits local communities from enacting a sanctuary policy related to immigration. Paducah Sen. Danny Carrol said it’s not about instituting local police immigration raids.
“It’s not saying that you have to do any more than what you do today,” he said. “It’s simply saying that you cannot do less.”
Carrol and other supporters argue it could help address gang activity. But he added the measure doesn’t require civilians to become law enforcement officers.
Opponents like Louisville Sen. Gerald Neal said there are no sanctuary cities or threat of one in Kentucky.
“What it adds up to is that Louisville metro is in complete compliance, complete compliance as it relates to its requirements on the federal level,” Neal said.
Lexington Sen. Reggie Thomas unsuccessfully sought to amend the bill to remove reference to universities. Thomas said enactment of this legislation would have a dampening effect on the agriculture economy where immigrants make up a sizeable part of the workforce.
The bill now heads to the House.
(This story first ran on Kentucky Public Radio.)
