JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Group members packed Jacksonville Metropolis Corridor Tuesday evening to voice opposition to a proposed immigration coverage that might require the disclosure of undocumented immigrants residing in city-controlled public housing.
The controversial legislation, which might prohibit metropolis funds for companies to individuals residing within the nation illegally, handed with an 11-7 vote.
It drew intensive public remark, with most audio system opposing the measure.
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“This invoice helps nobody, and it will do hurt to the Jacksonville neighborhood,” Tim Burbins stated.
A number of amendments have been added to the invoice through the prolonged session, together with exemptions for victims of home violence and pregnant ladies. The council needed to take a 20-minute recess to course of the ultimate amendments.
Councilman Rory Diamond defended the laws, arguing it was essential to keep up Jacksonville as “a metropolis of legal guidelines” and stop it from turning into a sanctuary metropolis. “We want an precise report of metropolis taxpayers,” Diamond stated. “The mayor wants to start out answering questions.”
Nonetheless, Councilman Rahman Johnson strongly opposed the measure. “I imagine we’re higher than this,” Johnson stated. “It doesn’t do something to cease crimes, it doesn’t create jobs… it creates confusion, profiling, and different points.”
Resident Janine Martinez spoke towards the invoice, figuring out herself as a mom, resident, and citizen. “This invoice helps nobody… It’s a waste of time,” she stated.
Protesters gathered exterior Metropolis Corridor earlier than and after the assembly, calling for the council to focus as a substitute on inexpensive housing and infrastructure enhancements.
Demonstrators additionally demanded the dropping of expenses towards pro-Palestine and immigrant rights activists and an finish to what they described as the town’s use of repression to silence public dissent.
A number of council members expressed that no quantity of amendments might handle the elemental points with the invoice’s intent.
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