SR 810: Federal Immigration Detention Facilities; the importance of transparency, community engagement, environmental stewardship, and congressional oversight; recognize

Senate Resolution 810

By: Senators Kemp of the 38th, Jones II of the 22nd, Howard of the 35th, Rhett of the 33rd, Mangham of the 55th and others

A RESOLUTION

Recognizing the importance of transparency, community engagement, environmental stewardship, and congressional oversight regarding the proposed development or expansion of federal immigration detention facilities in the State of Georgia and expressing support for federal efforts to ensure accountability in the siting of such facilities; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, communities across the State of Georgia have expressed concerns regarding the potential development or expansion of large-scale federal immigration detention facilities, including proposals affecting communities in Walton County and Hall County; and

WHEREAS, local leaders and residents have raised questions regarding infrastructure capacity, water and energy usage, environmental impacts, economic consequences, and the long-term effects such facilities may have on surrounding neighborhoods; and

WHEREAS, transparency, public input, and respect for local communities are essential principles that should guide decisions impacting the health, safety, and well-being of Georgia residents; and

WHEREAS, the Georgia State Senate recognizes the federal government's authority over immigration policy while affirming that major projects affecting Georgia communities should be pursued with openness, accountability, and meaningful consultation; and

WHEREAS, United States Senator Raphael Warnock has proposed federal legislative action to prohibit the use of certain federal funds for the construction, acquisition, or expansion of immigration detention facilities in Georgia, absent of explicit congressional authorization and appropriate oversight measures; and

WHEREAS, such efforts emphasize the importance of environmental review, fiscal responsibility, and community engagement, values shared by many Georgians regardless of political affiliation; and

WHEREAS, the Georgia State Senate has a long-standing interest in protecting local infrastructure, supporting responsible development, and ensuring that Georgia communities are not subjected to large-scale projects without adequate transparency and safeguards.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body express support for federal efforts that promote transparency, environmental stewardship, and meaningful community input regarding the siting or expansion of federal immigration detention facilities within the State of Georgia.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Georgia State Senate encourages the United States Congress and relevant federal agencies to ensure that any proposed detention facility projects include robust public disclosure, environmental review, and clear authorization by Congress prior to the obligation or expenditure of federal funds.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this body affirms the importance of collaboration among federal, state, and local leaders to ensure that decisions impacting Georgia communities reflect responsible governance and respect for the voices of residents. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed to make appropriate copies of this resolution available for distribution to the public and the press.