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Michigan lawmaker Rep. Joseph Fox backs legislation to ban sanctuary cities, aligning the state with federal immigration enforcement policies.
Michigan Immigration Policy: A Divisive Shift in Lansing
State Rep. Joseph Fox (R-Fremont) has thrown his support behind a controversial package of bills aimed at banning sanctuary cities in Michigan. Fox co-sponsored House Bills 4338, 4339, and 4342, which prohibit municipalities from adopting sanctuary policies and would freeze state revenue-sharing payments to any that refuse to cooperate with federal immigration authorities.
“It’s important we align Michigan with the new administration’s enforcement of illegal immigration,” Fox said in a statement, adding that “our communities thrive when we prioritize people, not lawlessness.”
Legislation Ties State Funding to Immigration Cooperation
Fox and other House Republicans are pushing to make state funding contingent on local government compliance with federal immigration enforcement. In February, they adopted House Resolution 19, which blocks sanctuary municipalities and universities from receiving earmarks in the state budget. These entities would only regain eligibility for state funding if they demonstrate they no longer maintain sanctuary policies.
“State tax dollars come from the hard-earned paychecks of working Michigan families,” Fox said. “My constituents should be able to trust that we’re utilizing their funds for the betterment of their community and enforcing the common good, not sheltering criminality.”
Fox Frames Policy as Balancing Law and Mercy
Fox acknowledged that many migrants crossing the southern border are “kind-hearted people,” but stressed they “have to follow the law and come in correctly.” He praised the Trump Administration’s approach, which includes a deadline for voluntary self-deportation and return through legal channels. Fox called this a system of “repentance and forgiveness,” emphasizing it aims to restore “law, order, and civility.”
Support for Legal Immigration Through H2A Visa Program
While backing stricter immigration enforcement, Fox underscored his support for legal immigration, particularly the H2A visa program. This visa allows U.S. farms, especially in Northern Michigan, to hire temporary agricultural workers during peak seasons when local labor is scarce.
“I’ll always support forms of legal immigration, particularly the H2A visa, which is very important in Northern Michigan,” Fox said. “Many of our farms employ visa workers, and they are great, law-abiding men and women who work hard and come into the land of opportunity, the correct way.”
Debate Reflects Broader National Tensions on Immigration
Fox’s push mirrors national divisions over immigration policy. Supporters argue the crackdown is necessary to protect taxpayers and uphold the rule of law. Critics warn that banning sanctuary cities could erode trust between immigrant communities and local law enforcement, making communities less safe.
In Michigan, where agricultural workforces rely heavily on seasonal migrants, the debate over legal versus unauthorized immigration carries particular weight. While Fox’s focus on the H2A program may appeal to Michigan farmers, the broader ban on sanctuary cities could intensify divisions in urban areas like Detroit, where local leaders have historically pushed back against federal immigration crackdowns.
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