Louisiana 2016 Regular Session

Louisiana House Bill HR170

Introduced
5/18/16  
Refer
5/19/16  
Refer
5/19/16  
Passed
6/5/16  

Caption

Requests law enforcement and governmental agencies to avoid and suspend contacts and outreach activities with the Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR)

Impact

HR170 does not create formal legislation but exerts pressure on state law enforcement to review and potentially alter their interactions with a group that has been labeled controversial. The resolution's implications could extend to how the state's governmental entities approach community relations and outreach, particularly with Muslim populations. By advising agencies to avoid contact with CAIR, it may create a chilling effect on community engagement, potentially isolating legitimate members of the Islamic community in Louisiana from law enforcement collaborations and outreach efforts.

Summary

House Resolution 170 (HR170) calls on law enforcement and government agencies in Louisiana to suspend formal contacts and outreach activities with the Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR). The resolution is rooted in allegations and evidence suggesting a link between CAIR and Hamas, a designated foreign terrorist organization. Citing various criminal convictions related to CAIR's representatives, the resolution urges a reconsideration of the nature of relations with the organization. Its premise is based on federal actions, including the suspension of CAIR's formal contacts by the FBI due to perceived threats associated with terrorism.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HR170 appears divided. Supporters argue that it's a necessary step to protect public safety and that distancing from CAIR is prudent given the allegations. Opponents, however, view it as an infringement on community relations, arguing that it unfairly stigmatizes the Islamic community and hampers constructive dialogue. This divide highlights broader tensions regarding national security, community relations, and civil rights.

Contention

Notably, HR170 emphasizes a conditional stance, stating that the resolution will only take effect based on future determinations by the U.S. Department of Justice regarding CAIR's activities. This introduces complexity to its implementation, as it leaves the resolution open to interpretations, especially concerning community perceptions of innocence until guilt is proven. The resolution seeks to maintain a semblance of balance, affirming that it does not intend to cast a negative shadow on all members of the Islamic community, but the call to suspend outreach remains contentiously framed.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA HCR131

Requests law enforcement and governmental agencies to avoid and suspend contacts and outreach activities with the Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR)

LA H1209

Disassociation from Council on American-Islamic Relations

LA HR971

Declaring the Council on American-Islamic Relations unwelcome at the Texas Capitol.

LA HB4097

Designate CAIR as a Terrorist Organization Act

LA HR467

Honoring the Dallas-Fort Worth chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations.

LA HB768

Provides with respect to the Louisiana Council on the Provision of Governmental Services to Latin Americans

LA SCR32

Urges and requests state and local government agencies to improve outreach to veterans and their families on mental health and readjustment issues.

LA SB91

Law enforcement; Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training; qualifications for the Executive Director. Emergency.

LA HR498

Condemning the surge in antisemitic violence in the United States and reaffirming support for the safety and civil rights of Jewish Americans.

LA SB242

Law enforcement training; modifying composition of the Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training. Effective date.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.