S. 3921: Sanctuary Jurisdiction Event Security Enhancement Act

The Sanctuary Jurisdiction Event Security Enhancement Act is a bill introduced in the U.S. Senate that aims to establish new requirements for jurisdictions deemed as "sanctuary jurisdictions" in order to qualify for Federal funding related to event security. Here are the main points the bill addresses:

Definitions

The bill defines "sanctuary jurisdictions" as any state or local government that does not fully cooperate with federal immigration enforcement, such as by withholding information about individuals' immigration status or failing to comply with detention requests from federal authorities. It also defines "SEAR support" as federal funds provided for events that require risk assessments and security measures.

Eligibility for Federal Funding

The bill stipulates that sanctuary jurisdictions shall not be eligible to receive federal funds for Special Event Assessment Rating (SEAR) support for events held within their areas. This includes funds from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and related grant programs. The ineligibility takes effect after a 30-day notification period, during which the jurisdiction must certify its compliance with immigration laws.

Reallocation of Funds

If a sanctuary jurisdiction becomes ineligible, the money that would have gone to them will be redirected to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The reallocated funds are intended for immigration enforcement efforts, particularly focusing on:

• Public safety threats, such as the arrest and deportation of criminal noncitizens and individuals on terrorist watch lists.
• At least 50% of the reallocated funds must be spent on operations related to border enforcement and removals.

Reporting Requirements

The Secretary of Homeland Security is required to submit semiannual reports to Congress detailing the amounts of funds withheld from sanctuary jurisdictions, the amounts reallocated to ICE, and the impact of these actions on immigration enforcement outcomes, specifically noting any changes in arrests, detentions, and deportations.

Severability Clause

The bill includes a severability clause, meaning that if any part of the law is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining sections will continue to be in effect.

Findings Justifying the Bill

The bill cites several findings to justify its provisions, including:

• Concerns that sanctuary jurisdictions may increase risks during major public events by limiting cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
• Citations of previous reports of individuals on terrorist watch lists entering the U.S. illegally and the historical risks posed by foreign-born terrorists.
• Emphasis on the need for compliance with immigration laws as a condition for receiving federal event security support.

Relevant Companies

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