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GOP-backed measure targets sanctuary cities in Michigan and municipalities that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.
Michigan House Passes Resolution Banning Pork Projects for Sanctuary Cities
The Michigan House of Representatives passed House Resolution 19 on Tuesday, implementing a rule that blocks state-funded pork projects for municipalities and universities that refuse to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement.
The resolution, sponsored by Rep. Mike Harris (R-Waterford), amends House rules to prevent legislative spending earmarked for local governments or educational institutions that subvert federal immigration laws. The measure passed along party lines, reflecting deep political divisions.
Crackdown on Local Governments Resisting Federal Immigration Measures
The new House rule applies to local governments and state universities that actively maintain policies obstructing federal immigration enforcement or refuse to comply with federal immigration detainer requests.
“We’re turning off the spigot for politicians who thwart public safety,” said Rep. Harris, a former law enforcement officer with 26 years of experience. “If local governments avoid their duty to protect their communities, they shouldn’t get special earmarks from state taxpayers.”
Under HR 19, any city, township, county, or university requesting state-directed spending must certify that it complies with federal immigration law. Failure to do so would render them ineligible for state-funded special projects. However, the resolution does not impact general revenue-sharing funds or competitive grant programs.
Concerns Over Crime and Polices of Sanctuary Cities in Michigan
Harris cited several violent crimes committed by undocumented immigrants in Michigan as justification for the measure, including murder, sexual assault, and a deadly hit-and-run. He also pointed to a surge in home invasions by transnational gangs in Oakland County.
“Oakland County families know firsthand the dangers brought by international criminals who break our laws, steal from law-abiding citizens, and put lives at risk,” Harris said. “Some local politicians allow their pro-illegal immigration stance to interfere with public safety. This measure ensures taxpayer dollars don’t support those policies.”
Examples of Sanctuary Cities in Michigan
Several Michigan jurisdictions have adopted sanctuary policies or taken steps to limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities:
- East Lansing passed a sanctuary city resolution restricting local law enforcement from collaborating with federal immigration officers.
- Kalamazoo County Sheriff stated that the department would not comply with ICE detainer requests, which allow federal authorities to hold arrested individuals suspected of violating immigration laws.
These policies, according to Harris and Republican lawmakers, undermine federal efforts to deport criminals and pose a direct risk to Michigan communities.
Opposition Pushes Back Against GOP Measure
Opponents of HR 19 argue the resolution is a politically motivated attack on immigrant communities and restricts local control over law enforcement policies. Several advocacy organizations, including the ACLU of Michigan, Michigan Immigrant Rights Center, and Michigan League for Public Policy, testified against the resolution.
“The proposed rule goes beyond the scope of state and local government. Courts have repeatedly affirmed that immigration enforcement is the purview of the federal government. Our local governments have the right to focus on safety in our communities, educating our children, and providing the infrastructure we need to grow businesses and recreation without being forced into federal immigration enforcement.” said a HR19 analysis from the Michigan Immigrant Rights Center. “While communities may not be able to prevent cruel enforcement practices, they may uphold the constitution and laws that protect against unlawful search and seizure.”
Other groups opposing the resolution include Think Babies Michigan, Hubris Collective, Rising Voices, and the National Association of Social Workers.
What’s Next for Michigan’s Immigration Enforcement Debate
While HR 19 is a rule change rather than a law, it effectively bars sanctuary cities and non-compliant universities from receiving targeted legislative funding. The move underscores the ongoing political battle over immigration enforcement in Michigan, with potential legal challenges and further legislative actions on the horizon.
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