H.R. 1913: Blocking Lawless Open Border Cities and States

This bill, known as the Blocking Lawless Open Border Cities and States Act, aims to change how federal funding is allocated for infrastructure projects, particularly concerning jurisdictions that are designated as "sanctuary cities" or states. Here’s a breakdown of the key points of the bill:

Purpose of the Bill

The bill seeks to restrict federal funding for infrastructure projects in states or localities that do not comply with certain federal requirements related to the detention and release of certain individuals classified as aliens.

Key Provisions

• Notification Requirement: The bill requires that any political subdivision of a state (like a city or county) must have a law, policy, or practice in place that mandates notifying the Secretary of Homeland Security within 48 hours before releasing an alien from custody if:
  • The alien has been determined to be unlawfully present in the U.S.
  • The Secretary has informed the local authorities about the alien's status within 48 hours prior to the release.
  • The alien has been in custody for at least 48 hours before their release.
• Impact on Funding: The Secretary of Transportation is specifically prohibited from awarding federal funds for infrastructure projects (including highway construction) to any political subdivision that fails to implement the required notification process within one year of the law's enactment.
• Definition of Infrastructure Projects: The bill refers to infrastructure projects as defined in existing statutes, essentially ensuring that the types of projects affected are consistent with federal definitions.

Implications

The implementation of this bill could lead to significant financial consequences for specific states or local governments if they do not adhere to the specified notification processes. In such cases, they would lose access to federal infrastructure funds that are often critical for transportation and public works projects.

Enforcement Timeline

If enacted, there would be a deadline of one year following the law's passing for jurisdictions to comply with the new requirements. This provides a limited window for jurisdictions to adjust their policies to align with federal expectations.

Goals of the Bill

Overall, the bill is designed to enhance federal oversight regarding individuals in custody and released by local jurisdictions, particularly regarding those who are unlawfully present in the United States. It aims to encourage local compliance with federal immigration priorities as a condition for receiving federal funding for infrastructure projects.

Relevant Companies

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