One California city has decided to part ways with the state’s sanctuary policies and openly cooperate with federal immigration authorities.
Key Facts:
- The Huntington Beach City Council voted 7-0 on Tuesday to become a “non-sanctuary” city.
- Mayor Pat Burns introduced the resolution, citing public safety concerns.
- The measure instructs local police to notify federal authorities when releasing illegal immigrants from jail.
- Huntington Beach is also suing the state, claiming sanctuary laws are unconstitutional.
The Rest of The Story:
Huntington Beach leaders believe that the city’s residents deserve strong protection from criminals who are in the country illegally.
By refusing to follow California’s sanctuary law, the council is giving its police department more freedom to share information with federal agencies.
Some city officials argue that such cooperation ensures that criminals living in the community without documentation can be deported.
Mayor Burns, a former law enforcement officer, made his position clear by stating that the resolution is meant to help keep residents safe.
During the council meeting, he displayed a small sculpture bust of President Donald Trump, aligning himself with the former president’s call for tougher immigration enforcement.
Councilman Chad Williams also expressed concern that sanctuary policies can leave law-abiding citizens at greater risk if local police are barred from coordinating with federal authorities.
The resolution points to high-profile crimes committed by members of organizations like MS-13 and Tren de Aragua.
Its supporters insist that a lack of collaboration between local and federal agencies encourages repeat offenses by illegal immigrants.
However, opponents say sanctuary policies protect those fleeing dangerous conditions and help build trust between immigrant communities and police.
In tandem with this resolution, Huntington Beach is challenging the state’s sanctuary laws in court.
Tonight, the Huntington Beach City Council voted to approve the initiative brought by Mayor Pat Burns to Declare the City of Huntington Beach a “Non-Sanctuary City for Illegal Immigration for the Prevention of Crime.”
As the City Council Members commented, the intent of this… pic.twitter.com/WzVeIJpFy8
— City of Huntington Beach (@CityofHBPIO) January 22, 2025
City officials contend that California cannot compel local governments to hinder federal immigration enforcement.
Whether other cities follow Huntington Beach’s lead remains to be seen.
Commentary:
We fully support the stance taken by Huntington Beach leaders.
In our view, adopting a non-sanctuary status is the right decision for local communities concerned about crime and public safety.
Local authorities should be free to collaborate with federal agencies to secure their neighborhoods, and we hope other cities across California adopt a similar approach to protect law-abiding citizens.
Sanctuary policies can create confusion and might enable dangerous individuals to remain in the area.
By standing up against these state-level mandates, Huntington Beach sets an example that puts its residents first.
Ultimately, local leaders know their communities best and are positioned to make the right call for the people they serve.
🚨🚨🚨 BREAKING: Huntington Beach City Council adopted a Resolution Declaring its a "NON-Sanctuary City for Illegal Immigration for the Prevention of Crime." The City will be cooperating and coordinating with federal law enforcement agencies and comply with Title 8 U.S.C,… pic.twitter.com/WK43lTLxWe
— Attorney Michael E. Gates (@MichaelGatesESQ) January 22, 2025
The Bottom Line:
Huntington Beach’s unanimous vote is a direct challenge to California’s sanctuary policies and spotlights a growing rift over how best to handle illegal immigration.
The city expects a legal showdown with the state in the months ahead.
Supporters argue this approach helps fight crime, while critics warn it could alienate some residents.
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