Massachusetts lawmakers have passed a bill aimed at protecting illegal immigrants from federal enforcement actions. The PROTECT Act, which stands for “An Act promoting rule of law, oversight, trust and equal constitutional treatment,” was approved by both the House and Senate and will now go to Governor Maura Healey’s desk for signature.
Legislative Action
According to Senate President Karen Spilka, the bill is a response to the fear and cruelty being fueled by President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement policies. Spilka stated that the bill will help protect families and defend the constitutional rights of Massachusetts residents. House Speaker Ronald Mariano also expressed support for the bill, citing the need to ensure that all residents in Massachusetts are treated equally under state law.
The measure was approved on the penultimate day of scheduled formal sessions, with lawmakers citing the need to take action to protect immigrants in the state. The Black and Latino Caucus had advocated for swift passage of the legislation, urging lawmakers to agree on a law before the start of the FIFA World Cup.
Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.
