PA: Lawmakers going after illegal immigration sanctuary laws
Lawmakers going after illegal immigration 'sanctuary' laws
York contemplated a legalization plan last year
By RICHARD FELLINGER Harrisburg bureau
Article Last Updated: 06/15/2008 03:19:55 AM EDT
Lawmakers who have been railing against illegal immigration unveiled two new bills recently to discourage local ordinances or policies deemed friendly to illegal immigrants.
Rep. Daryl Metcalfe, R-Butler, sponsored the bills that would level financial and legal penalties against municipalities that adopt "sanctuary" laws.
Metcalfe said he wants to put those governments on notice that "we're going to be coming after them."
While no "sanctuary" laws exist in Pennsylvania, recent proposals in York and Allentown would have run afoul of Metcalfe's plan.
York City Councilwoman Toni Smith drafted a resolution last year that would have created an "earned legalization" plan for undocumented immigrants already living in the city to become citizens. Her resolution did not go to a vote.
A spokesman for Gov. Ed Rendell questioned the need for Metcalfe's plan.
"We don't see this as a widespread problem at this point and aren't sure legislation is required at this time," spokesman Chuck Ardo said.
Metcalfe's plan would establish a procedure for the secretary of state to review local laws or policies to determine if they make the municipality a sanctuary for illegal immigrants.
Local governments deemed as sanctuaries would have any state funding, excluding funding associated with the courts or emergency services, held in escrow until the rule is repealed. The local government could also be held liable for any injuries or damages involving a crime committed by an illegal immigrant.
Metcalfe unveiled his bills at a Capitol rally attended by several lawmakers, including Reps. Scott Perry, R-Carroll Township, and Dan Moul, R-Conewago Township, Adams County.
Perry said the bills are needed because legal citizens are struggling to make ends meet, and it's wrong for a government to encourage illegal immigrants who drain public resources.
"Government makes the laws, and without question, government must be the first to abide by the laws," Perry said.
Moul said he backs the effort because illegal immigrants are increasingly draining public resources such as health benefits for the uninsured.
"There is a need for immigrants here, but they have to do it legally," Moul said.
Smith, a Democratic York city councilwoman, criticized Metcalfe's plan as unfair to local governments that are trying to solve problems. She said she drafted her resolution to find a solution to the problem of undocumented immigrants who have established homes and families here.
She said Metcalfe and the federal government aren't offering real solutions, and she derided Metcalfe's plan as "typical of a Republican."
"We're trying to do the best we can with the power we have, which is very limited," Smith said.
ON THE WEB
For more information on the bills sponsored by Rep. Daryl Metcalfe, R-Butler, visit his site at www.repmetcalfe.com and look under "Latest News."
http://oneoldvet.com/?p=6822
http://ydr.inyork.com/ci_9590104
