Leaders in Huntington Beach, California, have voted to become a “non-sanctuary” city, rejecting the state’s sanctuary laws and opting to cooperate with federal immigration authorities. The resolution was approved by a unanimous 7-0 vote, with Mayor Pat Burns introducing the legislation.
Burns, a former law enforcement officer, argued that the move is necessary for public safety, stating that it will allow the city to “utilize every facet of law enforcement” to make it a better place to live. The resolution directs police officers to work with federal immigration authorities and notify immigration officials when releasing illegal immigrants from jail.
The city is also suing the state over its sanctuary state laws, which it claims are unconstitutional. Councilman Chad Williams criticized state lawmakers for enacting policies to protect illegal immigrants, including those convicted of violent crimes, saying that it is “basic common sense” to use every tool available to keep the community safe.
The resolution mentions crimes committed by illegal immigrants on behalf of criminal gangs like MS-13 and Tren de Aragua, which gained widespread attention after its members allegedly terrorized residents at a Colorado apartment complex.
The move comes weeks after California Governor Gavin Newsom proposed a “Trump-proof” legal defense fund of up to $25 million for the state’s justice department. Trump has promised to target criminal illegal immigrants for deportation.
Huntington Beach City Attorney Michael Gates emphasized that the state should not take a position that violates federal immigration laws or encourages cities to do so, stating that the city should focus on protecting innocent citizens.
