Federal Court Says Trump Administration Can’t Deny Funds to Sanctuary Cities
A federal judge in Chicago has ruled that the Trump administration may not withhold public-safety grants to so-called sanctuary cities. The decision issued Friday is a setback to the administration’s efforts to force local jurisdictions to help federal authorities crack down on illegal immigration.
U.S. District Judge Harry Leinenweber ruled that Attorney General Jeff Sessions exceeded his authority by requiring cities to cooperate with federal immigration officials or lose grant money for fighting crime. Sessions wanted local authorities to detain people in this country illegally for 48 hours, so immigration agents could apprehend them, and allow agents into local jails.
The judge issued a temporary nationwide injunction in response to a lawsuit brought by the city of Chicago. The order prevents the Justice Department from withholding grant money until there is a final determination in the lawsuit, which could take months.
More: Federal Court Says Trump Administration Can’t Deny Funds To Sanctuary Cities : The Two-Way : NPR