Border Security, Public Health, and Sanctuary Policies: What’s at Stake for New Hampshire Communities? A Recap of Tuesday’s Community Conversation

On Oct 15th, the Common Sense State Representative Candidate Team—Liz Barbour, Sue Homola, and Jack Flanagan—held their second Community Conversation at the Lawrence Barn. The event was well-attended, with many residents from Hollis and Brookline. The discussion focused on New Hampshire’s Northern Border and the impact of sanctuary city policies on local communities.

Senator Kevin Avard shared details from his recent visit to New Hampshire’s Northern Border and discussed Senate Bill 563 (SB563), which aimed to ban towns from adopting sanctuary policies. He explained how SB563 included amendments to address law enforcement concerns, clarifying that law enforcement officers would only investigate citizenship status following a violation of New Hampshire law. Importantly, undocumented individuals serving as witnesses or victims of a crime would remain protected. While the Senate passed SB563, it failed in the House. Hollis Representatives Ming, McGhee, and Calabro voted against it.

Dr. James Kelly, MD offered insights on how immigration is affecting communities and the rise in cases of Tuberculosis, Dengue Fever, and Hansen’s Disease (leprosy) across the US. This includes areas around Grafton, Carroll, and Hillsborough Counties. Another doctor in attendance reinforced Dr. Kelly's warnings, emphasizing that individuals who are entering the US through unofficial border crossings are receiving no medical screenings, which are required procedures through legal immigration policy.

Liz Barbour, Sue Homola, and Jack Flanagan emphasized their commitment to supporting the enforcement of federal immigration law and supporting a bill that prohibited sanctuary cities at a state level. The candidates also discussed how Lebanon, NH adopted sanctuary policies in 2020. In addition, Nashua, located just five miles from Hollis, has been certified as a "Welcoming Town" to promote migrant integration. Also discussed during the town hall was the rise in sex trafficking and child exploitation due to open borders, underscoring the need for enforcement of federal law at the Southern and Northern borders.

Attendees received handouts that included:

·       Details of SB563

·       Facts about the Northern Border

• Hillsborough County’s designation as a sanctuary jurisdiction

• Nashua’s “Welcoming Certification”

• How fentanyl is trafficked into southern New Hampshire

• Immigration FAQs and more

All handouts and additional resources are available on the Common Sense team’s website at www.commonsensefornh.com.

The Common Sense State Representative Candidate Team is committed to continuing these conversations and working toward solutions that prioritize the safety and well-being of New Hampshire residents.