An ongoing investigation by the state into a Helena city resolution has reignited discussions about municipal rights. The League of Cities and Towns’ director accuses the state of persistently undermining municipal power. The state is examining if the city’s resolution breaches Montana’s sanctuary city ban, raising concerns among refugee advocates. This development has increased interest in how local governments handle immigration policies.
In January, Helena’s City Commission passed a resolution to limit federal law enforcement actions, reaffirming longstanding local policies. However, Governor Greg Gianforte and Attorney General Austin Knudsen warned that the measure might be illegal, possibly leading to severe penalties for Helena and other cities considering similar actions.
The governor and attorney general’s investigation announcement has worried local jurisdiction advocates and refugee supporters. Questions arise about the portrayal of refugees and legal immigrants in this context. House Bill 200, signed in 2021, prohibits sanctuary cities, though such cities are not present in Montana. The term refers to laws affecting information sharing between municipalities and federal entities, explained Montana League of Cities and Towns Executive Director Kelly Lynch, who opposed the bill.
During a press conference, Gianforte emphasized non-tolerance for defiance in Montana, citing concerns about crime and the need for local governments to collaborate with federal agencies. Refugee advocates argue that the focus on illegal immigration unfairly implicates all immigrants. Data suggests undocumented immigrants commit crimes at lower rates than native-born citizens.
Valerie Hellermann, of the Helena Area Refugee Resettlement Team, stated that immigrants do not fit negative state leader portrayals. They often work demanding jobs without displacing locals. A U.S. Department of Health and Human Services report highlighted refugees’ positive economic contributions from 2005 to 2019. The U.S. received 2.1 million refugees and over 800,000 asylum seekers between 1990 and 2022. Refugees undergo extensive screening and asylum seekers face lengthy processes at entry ports.
Hellermann noted that immigrants face challenges, like medical checks required for legal status and financial barriers. There’s a misconception about undocumented immigrants receiving social benefits; many wait years for work permits, forcing them to work unofficially. With cuts to food programs, their situation is even more precarious.
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