Scott supports bills to enhance public safety

Senator Tim Scott, South Carolina Republican, has announced he voted in favor of both the Stop Dangerous Sanctuary Cities Act and the Stop Illegal Re-entry Act.  Known also as Kate’s Law, the Stop Illegal Re-entry Act was named for Kate Steinle killed in San Francisco allegedly by an illegal immigrant who had been deported five times and had seven felony convictions. “Sanctuary cities are not providing safety, shelter, or security,” said Scott. “By refusing to comply with federal immigration laws and immigration authorities, these cities are knowingly creating an environment where repeat offenders can go without fear of repercussions.” If passed, both bills would help to improve the cooperation between local law enforcement and federal authorities, and would increase the criminal penalties for offenders. The Stop Dangerous Sanctuary Cities Act would withhold certain federal funds from jurisdictions that limit law enforcement cooperation with federal immigration officials. The Stop Illegal Reentry Act would create a five-year mandatory minimum for anyone convicted of illegal reentry and would increase the maximum penalty for illegal reentry from two to five years.