Imperial approves resolution that opposes the California Values Act
The American Civil Liberties Union is keeping a closer eye on the city of Imperial. After officials voted to create a resolution that goes against California’s sanctuary law. The law states that local authorities can’t arrest or investigate individuals for immigration violations. The city of Imperial is on of the few cities against this law.
The ACLU is making sure local governments are following the law. “We’ve already been working closely with the Attorney General’s office in identifying cities and jurisdictions that aren’t either not in compliance with the California’s Values Act. Or are resisting to comply with the California’s Values Act. Because it is the law and until that changes the law needs to be respected,” said Roberto Alcantar, Senior Immigrant Right Policy Strategist.
Imperial city officials say, they think the law affects the safety of residents. Alexis Chalupnik, Public Information Officer said, “For the city of Imperial, we took the approach of just taking a stance that we oppose it. In essence giving out law enforcement, the authorization to use their discretion and working with federal authorities.”
The ACLU says, it’s a waste of the city’s money and resources. Alcantar said, “You know to spend this much time, money and effort to make a political statement like this against immigrants, it just shows you the kind of priorities that this current city council has. Which we think that the city should be focused on providing the most basic service to its residents.”
Even if Imperial disagrees with the state law, the city can’t enact it’s own laws that goes against it.
