Explanation
In response to the disruptive nature of the aggressive tactics employed by federal immigration enforcement officers, this ordinance is one in a package of policies intended to curb federal overreach and abusive enforcement practices. These policies reflect Council’s commitment to ensuring that Columbus is a place where people can feel safe going to work, opening businesses and investing in their future.
This particular ordinances creates Sections 2317.53 and 2317.54 to add protections for schools and child day care centers by making certain disruptive activities a first-degree misdemeanor. These activities include, but are not limited to: obstruction of the premises, disorderly conduct within fifteen feet of the premises, physical restraining or other violence or threats to do the same, and harassment of school or day care center employees on the basis of their work at such a facility.
Emergency Designation: Because this is an active, ongoing public safety issue, emergency action is requested to allow Columbus residents, families, and employees additional safety and recourse as soon as possible.
Title
To enact Sections 2317.53 and 2317.54 of the Columbus City Codes to protect schools, child day care centers, and their employees from harassment; and to declare an emergency.
Body
WHEREAS, Columbus is a welcoming city and is home to thousands of immigrants, refugees, and naturalized residents; and
WHEREAS, Columbus City Council has an obligation to enact policies that protect our residents; and
WHEREAS, this ordinance is one in a package of policies intended to curb federal overreach and abusive enforcement practices; and
WHEREAS, an emergency exists in the usual daily operation of the City of Columbus in that there is an active, ongoing public safety issue for Columbus residents, families, and employees requiring immediate action for the preservation of the public health, peace, property, safety and welfare; NOW, THEREFORE,
BE IT ORDAINED...
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