Explanation
The purpose of this ordinance is to enact new Section 161.10 in Chapter 161 of the Columbus City Codes. This new section will prohibit the denial of city services based upon immigration status, solicitation of information about immigration status, use of city resources for the sole purpose of detecting or apprehending an individual based upon suspected immigration status, and investigating a person’s immigration status.
Title
To enact new section 161.10 of the Columbus City Codes to prohibit denial of city services, misuse of city resources, and solicitation of information about a person’s immigration status by City employees or officials.
Body
WHEREAS, for over 200 years, the economy and culture of Columbus has been enriched by immigrants and refugees from around the world; and
WHEREAS, it is the responsibility of municipal leaders to protect the well-being and safety of all people residing in their cities; and
WHEREAS, our city will be best served by reinforcing and instituting strong public policies that respect the rights of all individuals, regardless of national origin or immigration status, and promote strong police-community relations; and
WHEREAS, whether we are native born or New American, we all have a responsibility to actively engage in the success of our city; and
WHEREAS, Mayor Ginther issued Executive Order 2017-01 on February 3, 2017, adopting these same prohibitions for the city departments under the Mayor’s authority; NOW, THEREFORE,
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
SECTION 1. That new section 161.10 of the Columbus City Codes is hereby enacted, reading as follows:
161.10 - Denial of city services, misuse of city resources, and/or solicitation of information about immigration status.
A. Definitions. As used in this section:
1. “Public official” means any elected or appointed officer, or employee, or agent of the city whether in a temporary or permanent capacity.
2. “Public servant” means any person performing ad hoc a governmental function including without limitation a member of a temporary commission, master, arbitrator, advisor, or consultant.
B. No department, employee, public official, or public servant of the city of Columbus shall deny access to city services based on the immigration status of any person unless required by law or court order.
C. No department, employee, public official, or public servant of the city of Columbus shall solicit information about an applicant’s immigration status in any application for city services unless required by law or court order.
D. No department, employee, public official, or public servant of the city of Columbus shall use city moneys, equipment, or personnel for the sole purpose of detecting or apprehending any person based on the person’s suspected immigration status, except in response to a court order.
E. No department, employee, public official, or public servant of the city of Columbus shall request information about or otherwise investigate or assist in the investigation of a person’s immigration status unless a warrant exists, a criminal violation was reported, or an arrest was made.
SECTION 2. That this ordinance shall take effect at the earliest time allowable under law.