U.S. Rep. Lou Barletta (R-PA) drew attention on Monday to a pending California state bill that would impede the ability of federal immigration officials to do their jobs by effectively turning the entire state into a sanctuary jurisdiction that won’t comply with immigration laws.
The bill, the Transparent Review of Unjust Transfers and Holds (TRUTH) Act, A.B. 2792, would allow illegal migrants being held in custody to refuse to be interviewed by Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. Both the California House and Senate have passed similar versions of the bill, with the Assembly now considering the Senate version. The bill is expected to pass and be sent to Gov. Jerry Brown (D-CA) for his signature soon.
Barletta said that it was ironic that California was considering the bill because it was the same state where Kate Steinle was murdered by a seven-time felon and illegal migrant.
“It is sad that California is the home of this legislation that would make it even more difficult for ICE agents to do their jobs and enforce federal immigration law,” Barletta said. “We already knew that various jurisdictions actively excused illegal behavior, but this would turn the entire state into a giant sanctuary where illegal immigrants know they can enjoy protection. The result would be a complete dishonoring of the memory of Kate Steinle, who was gunned down by a criminal illegal immigrant, a chronic offender repeatedly granted freedom by local officials who scoffed at federal immigration laws and procedures.”
Barletta said that the Department of Justice should prepare a lawsuit against the state of California should the bill be signed into state law, using the supremacy of federal law as grounds for the lawsuit.