State Representative Cara Pavalock-D'Amato votes NO on SB 397

(Hartford)- State Representative Cara Pavalock-D'Amato voted “NO” along with Republican colleagues on SB 397, an act concerning democracy and government accountability, raising concerns that the bill will have a negative impact on public safety.  

Individuals opposed have voiced that this bill protects illegal aliens over federal officers, by creating limits that make it harder for them to do their job successfully and safely. The bill prohibits law enforcement from wearing facial coverings and requires them to wear name badges, making it a class D misdemeanor for violations. It also exposes law enforcement to liability for arrests made in “protected areas” such as courthouses or hospitals, and removes immunity from federal officers in criminal prosecutions unless the federal officer’s actions are authorized by federal law and necessary to execute the officer’s official duties. 

Republicans argued on the floor that these provisions will risk the safety of ICE agents and their families while also creating barriers when performing their duties.  

“I myself have been through the immigration process [referring to her first husband who was a Venezuelan National], and I protect and support those who come to this country legally,” said State Rep. Cara Pavalock-Damato. “What I do not support is those who come to this country illegally and commit crimes. Our federal immigration officers protect our country and make it safer, and instead of protecting them back, the Democratic party has voted to place limitations on ICE and have made it more difficult for them to do their job.” 

“Ultimately it comes down to balance. We can be a nation that welcomes immigrants. We can also be a nation that enforces its laws. These are not contradictions—they are responsibilities,” said Rep. Pavalock-Damato. “Supporting ICE agents is about recognizing the necessity of their role in a lawful society because a nation that enforces its laws with fairness and integrity is not weaker, it is stronger.”