LANSING — Today, in commemoration of June being Immigrant Heritage Month, State Rep. Abdullah Hammoud (D-Dearborn) and several House democratic colleagues announced that they will be introducing the MI Civil Rights Expansion bill package throughout the month of June. This comprehensive package will extend necessary civil rights protections to all residents, regardless of birthplace.

“The MI Civil Rights Expansion bill package sets the tone for the kind of state we want to be. Michigan should be a state that welcomes and promotes our diversity,” said Hammoud. “A state that recognizes the importance of the relationship between local police and community. One that fosters economic growth by providing equal opportunity for all individuals to pursue the American dream. By establishing a welcoming environment for all, we can attract talent from across the nation and globe to make Michigan their home.”

  • House Resolution 126, Rep. Abdullah Hammoud (D-Dearborn): A resolution to urge Congress to pursue humane and responsible immigration policies and oppose discriminatory policies and practices in immigration enforcement.
  • House Bill 4724, Rep. Abdullah Hammoud (D-Dearborn): Would turn Michigan into a welcoming state by prohibiting the use of state and local law enforcement resources for the enforcement of federal immigration laws.
  • HB 4725, Rep. Ronnie Peterson (D-Ypsilanti): Prohibits discriminatory stop-and-search policies without reasonable suspicion which would prevent racial or ethnic profiling.
  • HB 4726, Rep. David LaGrand (D-Grand Rapids): Prohibits cruel and costly immigration hold requests in local jails.
  • HB 4727, Rep. Kyra Bolden (D-Southfield): Creates the “Nonprofit Legal Organization Contract Act” to provide legal assistance for deportation proceedings.

 “This civil rights package reflects the important history, goals and values of our state,” said Carter. “My resolution affirms that Michigan is committed to protecting the rights granted to all who step foot in our state. These protections are crucial, and will ensure our communities are safer and more welcome to all that wish to call Michigan home.”

“We are taking a stand to protect the civil rights and liberties of all by proposing these laws,” said Peterson. “My bill protects communities by prohibiting discriminatory stop-and-search policies.”

“Innocent individuals who pose no danger to our community should not be incarcerated for no good reason at taxpayer expense,” said LaGrand. “My bill will help our local law enforcement teams use their resources for more pressing safety matters, and affirms the current best practices used in my home county, Kent County.”

“I am proud to serve as a leader in this crucial step towards ensuring Michiganders’ right to due process is protected," said Bolden. "This begins with establishing a process for immigrant residents to be fairly represented in our courts. It is our responsibility as legislators to protect the civil rights of immigrants, who continue to enrich our state and nation.”

This first MI Civil Rights Expansion bill package was introduced this week, and additional civil rights roll-outs related to education, data collection and transparency, and refugee resettlement are planned throughout June.

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