LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – The Republican-controlled Michigan House passed a package of bills on Thursday that bans cities from declaring sanctuary status for illegal aliens.

Sanctuary cities declare themselves safe havens for illegal aliens, and prevent law enforcement from cooperating with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials. House Bills 4338-4342 would ban those practices.

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If the bills pass the Michigan Senate and are signed into law, the bills would also withhold funding from any cities that align with sanctuary policies.

Rep. Cam Cavitt (R-Cheboygan) sponsored the legislation and said at least 20 communities in Michigan have adopted “policies that obstruct federal immigration enforcement.” Cavitt did say he understands local officials who want to help people, but says all that does is “[put] up a false flag of protection.”

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He said, “What they don’t understand is that allowing people to live here illegally…does nothing but keep people in the shadows and invite the worst criminals, gangbangers, and traffickers into our communities,” he said.

In addition, Rep. Doug Wozniak (R-Shelby Township) said these bills ensure state resources are tied to upholding the rule of law.

“Michigan communities must not become safety nets for individuals who break the law,” said Wozniak. “Sanctuary policies undermine law enforcement, compromise public safety, and violate the trust of law-abiding citizens. This legislation makes it clear that the rule of law matters in our state.”

The bills now head to the Democratic-controlled Senate.