Steinberg Calls On State House To Pass Safe Communities Amendment

From Ted Steinberg For State Rep.:On Monday morning, Ted Steinberg published a letter he sent to Representative Jeffrey Sanchez, the Chair of the House Ways and Means Committee, urging the passage of an amendment that prevents Massachusetts resources from aiding federal immigration crackdowns.

In a statement released with the letter, Steinberg accentuated the need for swift action on Beacon Hill:

“The people of Massachusetts want more than just vocal support, they want our legislature to act. The leaders of our Commonwealth need to step up to protect our immigrant communities. Every representative should be using all the lawmaking tools in the repertoire. Writing letters, speaking up on the floor, and demanding votes should be a given. We also need them at the detention centers bringing more attention to the atrocities. Silence and inaction are unacceptable.”

The Safe Communities Amendment to the FY 2019 Budget would prevent local police from inquiring about immigration status, stop 287(g) collaboration agreements with ICE, ensure due process protections for immigrants, and prohibit any discriminatory registries.

Running for State Representative in the 13th Norfolk District (Needham, Dover, and Medfield), Steinberg has focused his candidacy on the need for more legislative activism at the State House. He pledges to “walk the walk” on the issues and “serve as more than just a vote” in the legislature.

On Father’s Day, Steinberg participated in a vigil at the ICE Detention Center in Boston to stand in solidarity with those who have been detained. He was seen with a “Keep Families Together” sign.

Image Via Ted Steinberg for Senate