Congressman LaLota Takes Aim at Sanctuary Cities with New Bill

In response to the ongoing migrant crisis and the sanctuary city policies exacerbating it, Congressman Nick LaLota (R, NY-01), a House Committee on Homeland Security member, has introduced the "No Bailout for Sanctuary Cities Act." The bill aims to withhold federal financial assistance from sanctuary cities, including New York City, grappling with an influx of migrants.

LaLota's bill has garnered support from a coalition of original cosponsors, including Reps. Andrew Garbarino (R, NY-02), Anthony D'Esposito (R, NY-04), Mike Lawler (R, NY-17), Brandon Williams (R, NY-22), Nick Langworthy (R, NY-23), Claudia Tenney (R, NY-24), Carlos Gimenez (R, FL-26), and Michael McCaul (R, TX-10).

"However illogical, New York Democrats are free to keep their failed sanctuary city policies which are helping to cause New York City's migrant crisis and the $12 billion Mayor Adams says it will cost," said LaLota. "But these officials, who can repeal those costly policies any day, cannot expect other states' taxpayers to fund their indiscretion while their policies remain in place."

The bill's primary objective is to address the root causes of the migrant crisis rather than merely treating its symptoms. Rep. Garbarino stressed the importance of holding sanctuary cities accountable and cited the policies of New York City as contributing to the crisis. "Progressive policies like those implemented by New York City and New York State have brought the border crisis to our doorstep," he emphasized.

Rep. D'Esposito expressed his support for the bill, saying, "I am proud to cosponsor the No Bailout for Sanctuary Cities Act, which will ensure these 'sanctuary cities' do not receive federal funding until they stop serving as safe harbors for those who flaunt our laws and start prioritizing American national security."

Congressman Nick LaLota (R, NY-1) File Photo

The bill proposes restricting federal funding to jurisdictions with sanctuary city policies. This would affect resources allocated for addressing or aiding the migrant crisis, including food, shelter, healthcare services, legal services, and transportation costs.

New York City has witnessed the passage of over 100,000 migrants since the spring of 2022, with more than 58,000 still under the city's care. A recent Siena College Poll highlighted widespread concern among New Yorkers, with 82% viewing the influx of migrants as a serious problem and over 50% considering it a severe problem. Mayor Eric Adams and Governor Kathy Hochul have expressed the limitations of their capacity to handle the situation.

In August, Rep. LaLota led a letter to Governor Kathy Hochul and Mayor Eric Adams, addressing the challenges posed by the migrant crisis and urging them to take action.

As the No Bailout for Sanctuary Cities Act gains traction in Congress, its proponents seek to refocus efforts on addressing the migrant crisis at its source while ensuring that taxpayer dollars are allocated effectively and by the nation's laws.