Written by: Joe Gomez

Colorado Democrats are making pushing to establish a state-funded “support system” for migrants who have recently arrived in the state from the US-Mexico border.

House Bill 24-1280, known as the "Welcome, Reception, & Integration Grant Program," aims to provide assistance to migrants, its implementation faces limitations due to federal immigration law.

Under the bill, $2.5 million dollars would be allocated to local organizations across Colorado to aid migrants in finding jobs and offer a range of services to both legal and illegal migrants within one year of their arrival in the United States.

PRIME SPONSORS

• Rep. Elizabeth Velasco (email)

• Rep. Lorena García (email)

• Sen. Rhonda Fields (email)

Bill sponsor, Democratic Representative Lorena Garcia contends that the bill strengthens the state's nonprofit infrastructure to provide even better support to migrants. However, critics argue that the legislation could inadvertently incentivize more migrants to come to Colorado.

As the influx of illegal immigration at the southern border continues, Colorado is grappling with the financial burden of accommodating migrants in its municipalities. Denver alone has received nearly 40,000 migrants from the southern border in the past year, contributing to a staggering $200 million shortfall for the city.

Denver Mayor Mike Johnston reported that the number of migrants staying in city shelters has only recently dropped below 1,000 after six months.

Republican lawmakers, including those present in this month's committee hearing, are skeptical of legislating support for newcomers, fearing it may attract even more migrants to Colorado.

Republican Representative Mike Lynch, who is also running for Congress in Colorado's Fourth District, expressed concern during the hearing, stating that it sends a message to the world that Colorado offers favorable services and benefits to migrants.

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However, it is crucial to recognize that only the federal government possesses the authority to grant employment authorization to migrants, not the state. Colorado lawmakers have limited power to make work more accessible to new arrivals. The process of applying and receiving work authorization for migrants can take up to a year.

The bill was approved by the legislative committee along party lines and is now awaiting further debate on the House floor.