Bill aims to halt sanctuary cities sending migrants to red states

EXCLUSIVE — A new proposal could see nonsanctuary cities and states retaliating against sanctuary cities by cutting off FEMA funding. Rep. Burgess Owens (R-UT) is set to introduce the Sanctuary City Oversight and Responsibility in Enforcement (SCORE) Act to address the issue.

The bill comes after instances where sanctuary cities sent migrants to other cities without notice, like Denver sending migrants to Salt Lake City. The bill aims to prevent cities from using federal grants to transport migrants elsewhere without proper notification.

Under the Biden administration, FEMA has allocated $700 million to assist with the border crisis, but some cities have misused these funds. Owens believes that cities like Denver are exploiting loopholes by using taxpayer dollars for inappropriate purposes.

The SCORE Act would mandate accountability and transparency in the use of FEMA funds, ensuring that migrants are properly documented and have a plan for accommodation upon arrival in a new city. It also requires regular reporting on how funds are being utilized.

This move has sparked debate and criticism, particularly after New York City Mayor Eric Adams attempted a similar strategy. The bill aims to address concerns about the misuse of federal funds and ensure responsible handling of the migrant crisis.