Wisconsin Democrats propose blocking immigration enforcement

 

MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Democrats are proposing legislation to prevent state and local officials from detaining illegal immigrants in wake of the Trump administration's immigration crackdown.

In Madison, Democrats and advocates held a press conference to highlight their bill. That would restrict state and local agencies from cooperating with federal immigration officials, like ICE. 

The proposal would only allow law enforcement to assist with deportation efforts if a judge issues a warrant. 

Authors of the bill say the proposal will help reduce anxiety in communities and protect law abiding citizens. 

"Kids deserve to feel safe in school," said State Rep. Sylvia Ortiz-Velez, (D-Milwaukee). "People deserve to seek medical care without fear of separation or detainment. That's why we are introducing this bill." 

The Democratic bill is likely to face opposition in the GOP-controlled legislature as Republicans prepare to unveil their own immigration plans sometime this week. 

Assembly Speaker Robin Vos told reporters GOP lawmakers will propose legislation that would force law enforcement to cooperate with federal immigration officials. 

The debat4e over immigration enforcement will ramp up as many blue states are trying to draw a line between the state's criminal justice syst4em and federal immigration officials.