ACLU of Connecticut Responds to U.S. Department of Justice Suing Connecticut Over Laws Enhancing Immigration Protection

Hartford, Conn. –  David McGuire, Executive Director with the American Civil Liberties Union of Connecticut, responds to the Department of Justice after it sues the state for Public Act 26-14, formerly known as S.B. 397, An Act Concerning Democracy and Government Accountability:

"An Act Concerning Democracy and Government Accountability was sorely needed and loudly called for by Connecticut residents and advocates across the state, and it is constitutional. Grounded in the Tenth Amendment and basic principles of states’ rights, Connecticut has every authority to set standards for transparency, accountability, and the protection of people’s rights within its borders. It does not block federal immigration enforcement. This new law ensures that immigration enforcement does not come at the expense of safety and civil rights. The Department of Justice’s lawsuit is about power and intimidation, not law, and an attempt to force the state to serve a federal agenda that undermines fundamental freedoms. Connecticut is not required to stand by while its residents are targeted and has an obligation to protect them, and we are confident this law will stand up in court."