Two Democratic lawmakers in Georgia are using their elected powers to resist ongoing aggressive actions by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents. With new legislation, a state official and a city leader are attempting to prevent the creation of more large-scale ICE detention centers in Georgia.
Georgia state Sen. Jaha Howard has introduced Senate Bill 517, which prohibits the establishment of ICE detention centers in Georgia starting July 1, 2026, to July 1, 2028, while the state works to develop a long-term plan “that promotes dignity and justice in the operation of immigration detention centers.” Howard also introduced Senate Bill 549, which prohibits funding or other support of ICE detention centers in the Peach State.
Meanwhile, South Fulton Councilmember Helen Zenobia Willis recently introduced a resolution to ban warehouses in South Fulton from being purchased and converted into ICE detention centers through the city’s zoning code. In a 5 to 2 vote, the resolution was adopted last week, and an ordinance is expected in the coming weeks.
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