NW Kentucky News

House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman James Comer has initiated an investigation into sanctuary cities, examining their policies and the effect on public safety and federal immigration enforcement. Letters have been dispatched to the mayors of Boston, Chicago, Denver, and New York City, requesting documentation and communication regarding their sanctuary policies. The mayors have also been invited to testify at a committee hearing scheduled for February 11, 2025.

Chairman Comer expressed concerns about the impact of these jurisdictions on law enforcement efforts. "The Committee on Oversight and Government Reform is investigating sanctuary jurisdictions across the United States and their impact on public safety and the effectiveness of federal efforts to enforce the immigration laws of the United States," he stated. He further described these policies as "misguided and obstructionist," claiming they hinder federal officers' ability to safely arrest and remove dangerous criminals from communities.

Sanctuary jurisdictions are defined as "states, counties or cities that put some limits on how much they are willing to cooperate with federal agencies’ efforts to deport" illegal aliens. These areas reportedly choose which laws to follow in order to shield removable aliens from federal enforcement. Currently, around 12 states along with numerous cities and counties maintain such laws or policies.

Chairman Comer referenced actions taken by former President Donald Trump regarding immigration enforcement: “On the first day of his second term, President Donald Trump took decisive actions to restore the rule of law with respect to immigration enforcement.” He emphasized Congress's role in determining if additional legislation is required for border security and public safety enhancement.

Mayors Michelle Wu of Boston, Brandon Johnson of Chicago, Mike Johnston of Denver, and Eric Adams of New York City received individual letters concerning this matter.