“Sanctuary State” Bill To Be Introduced at next Minnesota Legislative Session

ST. PAUL (KVRR/KFGO) — A coalition of lawmakers and advocacy groups are introducing a bill that would make Minnesota what some call a “sanctuary state”.

Democratic State Rep. Sandra Feist of New Brighton says the North STAR Act essentially prevents local law enforcement from cooperating with federal immigration authorities.

Feist says the highly-technical bill is intended to create clarity and ensure state and local resources are not wasted by enforcing “broken” federal immigration laws.

“The North STAR Act says that Minnesota does not terrorize its residents. Minnesota does not waste precious public dollars enforcing broken federal immigration laws. Minnesota is a place where immigrants will have opportunity to contribute to our communities, to our economy and to their families,” said Feist.

It will be introduced in a House committee when the Legislature convenes next week.

Republican House Minority Leader Lisa Demuth of Cold Spring says now is not the time for this type of bill.

Many U.S. cities and counties, including Hennepin County, have already declared themselves sanctuaries.

Gov. Tim Walz has said he would support similar laws.