Michigan House adopts resolution penalizing 'sanctuary' policies; 56-15 vote

Lansing — The Michigan House of Representatives adopted House Resolution 19 on Feb. 11, approving a nonbinding measure that would withhold certain state-funded discretionary projects from municipalities that adopt sanctuary-style policies, the chamber announced after a roll-call vote of 56 ayes and 15 nays.

Supporters and opponents sparred on the House floor over consequences for public safety, local budgeting and civil liberties. Opponents said the resolution would damage trust between immigrant communities and law enforcement and could lead to wrongful detentions; backers described it as a check on localities that, they said, refuse to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement.

The resolution was introduced by Speaker Hall and recommended by the Government Operations Committee. After several failed amendments, Representative Wegela rose in opposition, calling the measure “simply a power grab” and saying it would punish municipalities that adopt local protections for immigrants. “Dehumanizing an entire group of people is always wrong…