Nevada Lawmakers Address Concerns Over Increased Federal Immigration Enforcement
Recent actions by federal immigration officials in Nevada have sparked significant concern among local lawmakers and advocacy groups. During a press conference held in Carson City, members of the Nevada Immigration Coalition emphasized the need for state leaders, particularly Governor Joe Lombardo, to reassure residents about their rights amidst an apparent surge in immigration enforcement.
Escalation of Federal Presence
This week, reports indicated that approximately 30 individuals were arrested by federal agents in Northern Nevada, including cities like Reno and Carson City. Noé Orosco, representing Make the Road Nevada, remarked on the timing of these operations, suggesting that the presence of immigration enforcement in the state capital was not coincidental, stating, “That is intimidation, plain and simple.”
Implications for Local Communities
The coalition has expressed serious concerns about how the heightened enforcement could disrupt families and negatively impact the state’s economy, which relies heavily on its immigrant workforce. Orosco highlighted, “We are day laborers, bakers, food service workers, parents and neighbors,” noting that immigrants contribute over $20 billion annually to the state’s economy.
Calls for Action
Athar Haseebullah, executive director of the ACLU of Nevada, criticized the lack of response from Governor Lombardo. “Realistically, there needs to be a press conference next door because the governor has been silent,” he stated, urging action to ensure protections for all residents regardless of immigration status.
Organizers of the coalition have previously alerted communities about looming immigration enforcement but admit difficulty in accurately tracking detentions in Southern Nevada.
Legislative Measures Proposed
Several Democratic lawmakers joined the coalition at the press conference to advocate for legislative solutions aimed at protecting vulnerable populations. Key proposals include:
- Assembly Bill 217: Prohibits school officials from allowing immigration officers access to schools or student records without a warrant.
- Assembly Bill 460: Streamlines the process for appointing temporary guardians for minors during immigration actions.
As Assemblymember Cecelia González stated, “Every Nevadan, regardless of their immigration status, deserves due process, dignity, and protection under the law. Immigrants are not a threat to Nevada; they are essential.”
Governor’s Office Response
The governor’s office has directed inquiries about the federal crackdown to immigration officials. Elizabeth Ray, a spokesperson, noted, “Nevada is not a sanctuary state or jurisdiction, and Nevada will continue to follow federal law under Governor Lombardo’s leadership.” Inquiries directed to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement have gone unanswered.
Community Awareness and Rights
The coalition cautions community members about the possibility of enforcement actions and highlights the importance of knowing one’s rights. Resources such as “know your rights” pamphlets have been distributed by the Nevada Attorney General’s office to assist both individuals and employers within the immigrant community.
As federal immigration policies continue to evolve dramatically, the ongoing dialogue about immigrant rights and safety in Nevada remains critical, marking a significant moment in state political and social discourse.