A group of House Democrats introduced legislation on Thursday that would prohibit immigration arrests and surveillance at “sensitive locations,” including hospitals, schools, churches and courthouses.
The Protecting Sensitive Locations Act, from Rep. Adriano Espaillat, D-N.Y., is a response to what he and other Democrats say is an increasing number of arrests while illegal immigrants are in these “sensitive locations.”
“Individuals should not be subject to arrest while mourning loved ones at funerals or while dropping off their child for school,” Espaillat said. “The Protecting Sensitive Locations Act holds law enforcement accountable and ensures that they adhere to the letter of the law.”
Rep. Jose Serrano, D-N.Y., said his office has heard reports of Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents trying to capture illegal immigrants at these locations.
“ICE activities at these vital, essential locations create a disincentive for immigrants, even those who are documented, from doing things like accessing basic benefits, reporting crimes, and ensuring their health and well-being,” he said.
Serrano also accused President Trump or ordering ICE agents to stake out these locations.
“President Trump has tried to intimidate communities by targeting and deporting immigrants in an indiscriminate manner but this bill will help codify common-sense limits on ICE enforcement activities and protect vulnerable immigrants’ basic rights,” he said.
