Connecticut House Bill HB05545

Connecticut 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/15/18
• Refer: 3/15/18

Caption

An Act Concerning Local And State Cooperation In The Enforcement Of Federal Immigration Law.

Impact

If enacted, HB 5545 would result in amendments to existing state laws regarding the handling of civil immigration detainers. The bill outlines situations under which law enforcement would be obligated to detain individuals upon receiving a civil immigration detainer, thereby expanding the scope of local police authority to act on federal immigration directives. This could lead to an increased number of detainers being honored by local jurisdictions, potentially impacting immigrant communities and the local law enforcement paradigms of cooperation and trust.

Summary

House Bill 5545, titled 'An Act Concerning Local And State Cooperation In The Enforcement Of Federal Immigration Law', aims to enhance the collaboration between local and state law enforcement agencies and federal authorities in enforcing immigration laws. The bill reinstates provisions under which law enforcement officers are required to detain individuals who are subject to civil immigration detainers issued by federal immigration authorities. It seeks to tighten the procedures by which local police handle these detainers, emphasizing conformity with federal immigration priorities and ensuring individuals deemed a public safety risk are managed appropriately.

Contention

The bill has sparked notable debate among legislators and community advocates. Proponents argue that it is essential for maintaining public safety and ensuring a unified approach in responding to federal immigration policies. However, opponents raise concerns that such mandates may erode community trust in law enforcement, particularly among immigrants, who may fear detention and deportation. This has invoked broader discussions on the ethical implications of enforcing federal immigration laws at the local level and the potential for racial profiling and discrimination in enforcement practices.