I am writing in support of H.R.5166 - Protecting Sensitive Locations Act and S.455 - A bill to amend section 287 of the Immigration and Nationality Act to limit immigration enforcement actions at sensitive locations, to clarify the powers of immigration officers at sensitive locations, and for other purposes. No one should live in fear of being detained while taking their child to school, seeking medical care, or practicing their faith. Allowing ICE to invade spaces where people access health care, education, justice, and prayer is cruel and unnecessary, as well as a threat to public safety. When people are too frightened to seek medical care or report a crime, the entire community suffers. This bill prohibits immigration enforcement actions within 1,000 feet of a sensitive location except in exigent circumstances.
Sensitive locations include:
 

• health care facilities;

• schools and school bus stops;

• places that provide assistance for people such as places that provide disaster or emergency services;

• places of worship;

• courthouses and lawyers’ offices;

• facilities used as polling places;

• public assistance offices.

The prohibition shall apply to Department of Homeland Security officers and agents, as well as state employees pursuing immigration enforcement actions. I am asking for you to support this legislation as it makes its way through congress. Thank you.