Thu Jan 23 09:20:00 UTC 2025: **Huntington Beach Votes to Become Non-Sanctuary City, Defying California State Law**

HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA – In a move directly challenging California’s sanctuary state laws, the Huntington Beach City Council unanimously voted Tuesday to become a non-sanctuary city. The resolution, introduced by Mayor Pat Burns, allows city police to cooperate fully with federal immigration authorities, including notifying them before releasing undocumented immigrants from jail.

Mayor Burns, a former law enforcement officer, cited public safety as the primary reason for the decision. The city’s news release emphasized the resolution’s aim to circumvent what it called the Governor’s attempts to hinder federal immigration enforcement efforts and to cooperate with the Trump administration’s policies.

The council’s action follows a recent proposal by California Governor Gavin Newsom to establish a $25 million legal defense fund for the state’s justice department, aimed at combating the Trump administration’s immigration policies. Huntington Beach is also currently suing the state, claiming its sanctuary laws are unconstitutional.

Council members voiced frustration with California’s policies, arguing they hinder local law enforcement’s ability to address crime, including crimes committed by members of gangs like MS-13 and Tren de Aragua. City Attorney Michael Gates stated that California should “get out of the way of local law enforcement” and focus on protecting citizens.

This decision places Huntington Beach in direct conflict with state law, setting the stage for potential legal challenges. The city’s action reflects a growing divide between local governments and the state over immigration enforcement in California.

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