Two counties in Colorado have filed a lawsuit challenging the state’s sanctuary laws. The counties argue that these laws are not only unconstitutional but also exacerbate the immigration crisis in the state.
House Bills 19-1124 and 23-1100, signed by Democratic Governor Jared Polis, have significantly limited local officials’ ability to cooperate with federal immigration authorities.
El Paso and Douglas County officials contend that the sanctuary laws enacted by Colorado House Bill 19-1124 and House Bill 23-1100 violate several provisions of the Colorado State Constitution.
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They argue that these laws infringe on the Intergovernmental Relationships, Distribution of Powers, and Revival, Amendment, or Extension of law provisions. Additionally, they claim that federal immigration laws and regulations preempt the laws.
House Bill 19-1124 specifically prohibits local police from sharing information with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
On the other hand, House Bill 23-1100 prohibits localities from entering into agreements with federal officials for civil immigration enforcement. These laws make it considerably more challenging for ICE agents to carry out their duties effectively within the state.
Beyond the constitutional arguments, El Paso and Douglas County officials highlight the detrimental effects of these sanctuary laws on the immigration crisis in Colorado.
“There is an illegal immigration crisis in America,” Douglas County Commissioner George Teal said in a statement to 9News. “We have been proactive, taking steps to mitigate the crisis here in Douglas County, Colorado. What has been missing is the ability of our local law enforcement agencies to work with immigration officials. This is what we seek to solve through this legal action.”
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The state’s capital, Denver, has experienced financial strain due to the large influx of illegal immigrants seeking government services.
The burden on Denver’s resources has forced the city to make cuts in other crucial areas, such as reducing the budget of the Denver Police Department.
“The national migrant crisis has forced Denver to continue to cut local services for residents. We have an obligation first to our citizens, and we see what’s happening in Denver as a warning sign to be proactive here in Douglas County,” Douglas County Commissioner Lora Thomas said to 9News. “Unfortunately, since the federal government has not taken action at the border, this legal action is now necessary for the preservation of public welfare, health and safety of our local community.”
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