CDLC Celebrates Preliminary Injunction Granted in Case Moss v. Polis
DENVER, CO — Today, members of the Colorado Democratic Latino Caucus joined Colorado WINS, Towards Justice, CIRC, and CO AFL-CIO for a press conference at the State Capitol to celebrate the preliminary injunction granted by Denver District Court Judge A. Bruce Jones.
With this injunction in place, we have an assurance that the Division of Labor Standards and Statistics in the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment will not turn over the personally identifying information of Colorado residents currently caring for unaccompanied minors. Yesterday’s ruling clearly demonstrates that due process will be upheld in the state of Colorado, and that ICE will not be able to undercut the laws of our state in order to carry out its campaign of terror.
Part of the basis for the lawsuit that Mr. Moss brought forth is SB25-276, which prohibits the state’s collaboration with ICE without due process. Both Latino Caucus Co-Chairs Senator Julie Gonzales and Representative Elizabeth Velasco were prime sponsors of this bill. In reference to this legislation, Senator Gonzales stated, “We now have law in the state of Colorado that has been tested…this law is meant to ensure that prior to any personally identifying information being shared, with any federal agency, for the purposes of immigration enforcement, that they go talk to a judge”.
While CDLC celebrates Judge Jones’ decision, it is important to recognize the harm that has already taken place. “There has been a breach in trust, not only from the public, but also with us as lawmakers because we came to the table to negotiate SB25-276 in good faith with the governor, and he still chose to comply with the subpoena.” said Latino Caucus Co-Chair Elizabeth Velasco.
This preliminary injunction was the first step in what will likely be a monthslong legal process, but sends a clear message to any entity attempting to undermine the rights of the residents of Colorado that their actions will not be tolerated.
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