Sanctuary state bill divides legislators

HARTFORD — Lawmakers are split along party lines regarding proposed legislation that would make Connecticut a “sanctuary state.”

The bill, filed by Rep. Edwin Vargas, D-Hartford, would prevent state police from demanding information concerning citizenship from individuals with whom they interact, including those who are in custody.

Sen. Tony Guglielmo, R-Stafford, called the proposal “one of the worst ideas in my 24 years” in Hartford, saying it would threaten public safety by creating a place where illegal immigrants with a criminal history can come to avoid legal consequences.

“We’re going to be a magnet for people with problems,” he said. “It makes no sense. Frankly, I think it’s grandstanding on the part of some people.”

Read more: http://www.journalinquirer.com/politics_and_government/sanctuary-state-bill-divides-legislators/article_693de59a-e7d6-11e6-ae5c-dbeeeb238de8.html