House approves bill to deport non-citizens convicted of DUI
The U.S. House of Representatives has passed a new bill, known as H.R. 875, which seeks to deport non-citizens convicted of driving under the influence (DUI).
According to Breitbart, the legislation, named after individuals killed by impaired drivers who were non-citizens, passed largely along partisan lines, with most Republicans in support and significant Democratic opposition.
H.R. 875 is named to honor the memories of Angel and Jeremy Seay and Sergeant Brandon Mendoza. Angel and Jeremy, a newlywed couple, lost their lives due to the actions of an intoxicated non-citizen. Their tragic deaths catalyzed this legislation.
Names of Victims Inspire New Bill
The Seays' names are paired with that of Sergeant Brandon Mendoza, whose life was also tragically cut short under similar circumstances. Mendoza, a dedicated law enforcement officer, was driving home from work on May 12, 2014, when he encountered a dire situation.
The driver who killed Mendoza was under the influence of both alcohol and illegal substances, including methamphetamine. This individual traveled more than 35 miles in the wrong direction on multiple Phoenix freeways before colliding head-on with Mendoza's vehicle.
Proponents of H.R. 875 argue that the bill addresses a critical gap in public safety policies. Mary Ann Mendoza, the mother of Sergeant Mendoza, has been an outspoken advocate for the bill. She repeatedly emphasizes the wide-reaching impact of crimes committed by non-citizens, which she feels often go unreported and unchecked.
Contention Between Party Lines
Mary Ann Mendoza shared poignant insights into her experience, stating, "My name is Mary Ann Mendoza and my son Sergeant Brandon Mendoza was killed on May 12th, 2014, on his way home from work by a three-time limit drunk, who was also high on Meth. He had driven over 35 miles the wrong way on four different freeways in Phoenix before slamming head-on into my son’s car."
She further voiced the scale of the issue by noting, "As you know, they could fill this stage up every day for the next five months with victims of illegal alien crime, and it would just keep going." Her perspective is shared by many, resonating with those who have experienced loss from similar crimes.
Mary Ann Mendoza also remarked, "Unfortunately, we are members of a club of our children or loved ones who have been killed by illegal aliens. There are hundreds of thousands of victims every year who are affected by illegal alien crime—rape, assault, identity theft. These are things that go unreported, unchecked."
Reactions to the Bill's Passage
The bill's passage in the House was met with substantial critique, primarily from the Democratic side. Rep. Jerry Nadler (D-NY) criticized the legislative approach of his colleagues across the aisle. He argued the Republicans were "inventing perceived gaps in the law and providing overly broad legislation to fix them."
This sentiment reflects a broader disagreement regarding the necessity and efficacy of H.R. 875. For Nadler and others who share his view, the existing laws suffice, and this new legislation might introduce unintended consequences.
In contrast, Rep. Pete Stauber (R-MN) called for a united front on issues of public safety. He challenged his Democratic counterparts by saying, "To my Democratic colleagues, I ask: Get on the side of public safety and law enforcement all of the time, not just during election years."
Severe Responses and Emotional Appeals
The emotional appeal of the bill is undeniable, particularly given its connection to personal tragedies. The names it bears serve as a poignant reminder of the lives lost to preventable acts. Supporters of the bill are adamant that this legislation is a step toward justice and prevention.
Yet, the bill also raises discussions on immigration and crime. The divide between the parties underscores the complexity of balancing law enforcement with policies affecting non-citizens. Many anticipate further debates as the legislative process continues.
As the bill moves forward, it remains a focal point of discussion in the ongoing dialogue about public safety and immigration reform. Whether it achieves its intended outcome or not, H.R. 875 has already succeeded in elevating the conversation to a national level.