Prohibits state or municipality from contracts to detain individuals for civil immigration violations, and if such contract exists, it must end by July 1, 2026 and prohibits using public resources to detain those individuals.
Impact
The implications of HB 5724 are substantial, especially concerning the relationship between state and federal immigration enforcement mechanisms. By prohibiting contracts for detention, the bill aims to eliminate any local collaboration with federal immigration authorities, positioning itself as a protective measure for individuals against potential civil rights violations associated with ICE detentions. This statute is expected to influence how law enforcement and local government agencies operate regarding federal immigration laws, possibly leading to a re-evaluation of public safety policies.
Summary
House Bill 5724 proposes significant changes regarding the treatment of individuals detained for federal civil immigration violations in Rhode Island. The bill prohibits any state or municipal governmental official or agency from entering into or renewing contracts that would allow the detention of individuals for these violations. Furthermore, existing contracts of this nature must be terminated by July 1, 2026. This legislation seeks to limit the role of local authorities in addressing federal immigration enforcement, thereby redefining the landscape of immigration policy at the state level.
Conclusion
If enacted, HB 5724 will not only reshape the legal framework for immigration-related detentions in the state but also signal a broader commitment to prioritizing civil liberties over compliance with federal immigration directives. The law’s effective date upon passage underscores the urgency with which the legislature aims to respond to ongoing concerns about civil rights and local government responsibilities in the realm of immigration.
Contention
The proposed legislation has sparked a significant debate among lawmakers and advocacy groups. Proponents argue that the bill upholds the rights of individuals by preventing local entities from profiting from federal detainment practices. Conversely, opponents contend that it undermines the enforcement of federal immigration laws and could create a barrier to addressing crime and maintaining public safety. This dichotomy highlights the broader conflict between local autonomy and federal authority in immigration enforcement, and the bill's passage reflects ongoing tensions between these two spheres.
Prohibits state or municipality from contracts to detain individuals for civil immigration violations, and if such contract exists, it must end by July 1, 2025 and prohibits using public resources to detain those individuals.
Prohibits state or municipality from contracts to detain individuals for civil immigration violations, and if such contract exists, it must end by July 1, 2025 and prohibits using public resources to detain those individuals.
Prohibits contractors and subcontractors from paying employees the cash equivalent of any applicable healthcare benefit in lieu of actually purchasing the healthcare benefit. Violations would be subject to civil fines.
Prohibits contractors and subcontractors from paying employees the cash equivalent of any applicable healthcare benefit in lieu of actually purchasing the healthcare benefit. Violations would be subject to civil fines.
Prohibits the extension of contracts by any state or municipal department or agency by the utilization of change orders if the additional work or services exceeds ten percent (10%) of the original value of the contract.
Provides for code blue and code red alerts to trigger certain procedures municipalities must follow during extreme heat or cold to help at-risk individuals with shelter.
Provides for code blue and code red alerts to trigger certain procedures municipalities must follow during extreme heat or cold to help at-risk individuals with shelter.
Requires written consent by recipient or parent before vaccine and prohibits discrimination against those who don't vaccinate and fines up to $25,000 for violation. Also prohibits DCYF from investigating for failure to vaccinate.
Authorizes the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority to enter into certain projects and procure related services including the transit center project, using design build contracting and progressive design build contracting.
Provides employees with civil administrative remedies against contractors, subcontractors involved in the contract with joint/severable liability imposed on contractors or subcontractors. Effective 9/1/2024.