Bills would establish Office of Immigrant Affairs, prohibit discrimination

Baltimore County Councilman Izzy Patoka, saying he is choosing love over hate, introduced two bills that would set aside resources and establish protections for immigrants living in the county.

The Pikesville Democrat, who is running for county executive, said during Monday’s meeting that he was inspired by his faith to propose the separate pieces of legislation.

“One of the core tenets of my faith is to welcome the stranger,” said Patoka, who is Jewish. “Not to lock yourself inside your own community.”The first bill would codify an Office of Immigrant Affairs housed under the county executive’s office, according to a draft copy.

That office would provide resources to, and advocate on behalf of, Baltimore County’s immigrant community.

The second bill would prohibit any county employee, department or agency from discriminating against anyone not born in the United States based on citizenship, nationality or immigration status, according to a draft copy.

Additionally, if passed, the bill would allow county police officers to participate in federal or state task forces that enforce immigration solely based on criminal, not civil, activity.

The legislation also would require all county departments to develop publicly available policies and annual reports, including reports of violations.

Patoka said he crafted both bills with help from CASA, a nonprofit immigrant advocacy organization.

Read full article: Baltimore County Councilman Izzy Patoka proposes immigrant protections – The Baltimore Banner