The Safe Communities Act (S.1681/H. 2580), or “An Act to protect the civil rights and safety of all Massachusetts residents,” is sponsored by Sens. Eldridge and Miranda, as well as Reps. Cruz and Sousa. The bill in both the Senate and House has been referred to the Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security.
In light of harsh federal actions toward immigrants, it is vital that Massachusetts ensures the safety of these communities in the state. The Safe Communities Act would prohibit questioning from state and court officials about immigration status and the deputization of local officials to serve as immigration agents. This bill also ensures the protection of immigrants rights by ensuring access to the court system and requiring written consent before an ICE interview.
The misuse of state officials and safety resources jeopardizes the relationship between immigrant communities and the public institutions that are meant to serve and protect, leading the Safe Communities Act to earn support from police chiefs and district attorneys around the state.
Visit MIRA’s Protecting our Immigrant Communities Campaign for more information.
Safe Communities Act Fact Sheet.
Lead Sponsors: Sen. James Eldridge; Reps. Manny Cruz and Priscila S. Sousa
Committee: Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security
Primary Advocate: Amy Grunder (MIRA)
Take action and use this easy form to urge your legislators to support the Safe Communities Act!