Republican Free Staters are still targeting immigrants, this time those who are undocumented. It’s estimated there are about 9,500 undocumented immigrants in New Hampshire, 0.7% of the state’s total population. Some 86.5% of them are of working age.
HB 1709, a bill sponsored by Rep. Joe Alexander (who scores A+ with Liberty Alliance) will make it a crime for undocumented immigrants to rent an apartment, unfortunately passed in the House and comes up for a vote in the full Senate on May 14. It will then go to the governor if passed.
Let’s all speak up and stand up for our immigrant neighbors and friends.
Please take a few minutes to send ONE email to all members of the State Senate, urging them to oppose this bill. In the “subject line” put HB 1709. Copy and paste the following message (or write your own).
I am writing to request that you oppose HB 1709 when it comes up for a vote in the full Senate on May 14. Here are a few key issues:
1. The bill, while presented as a "housing" bill, will have no meaningful impact on the housing crisis.
2. The bill is unnecessary as any immigrant residing in NH who is completely undocumented and has committed a serious crime is likely qualified for deportation already.
3. Criminalizing renting an apartment could adversely affect innocent children who are living in that household.
4. This bill would put an undue burden on County Sheriff's offices throughout NH by requiring them to enforce federal immigration law.
5. This bill, if it becomes law, will signal that NH does not welcome immigrants. The positive impact of immigrants as it relates to workforce shortage, has been well documented.
Thank you for your consideration.
Rebecca.PerkinsKwoka@gc.nh.gov
Thank you for coming to the defense of others!