"We're back again, because the urgency of this issue has only grown. At a time when immigrant communities are facing increasing attacks, harmful rhetoric, and fear, we have a responsibility at the local level to respond."
"Non-citizen immigrants with 'legal status' make up more than 28% of Boston's population, according to Mejia's petition. They pay an average of $2.3 billion a year in taxes."
"Legal residents contribute to the city every day and are deeply invested in its future, Mejia said. They pay taxes but are excluded from decisions that directly affect their schools, housing, and daily lives."
Boston City Councilor Julia Mejia introduced a home-rule petition allowing immigrants with legal status to vote in municipal elections, building on a similar 2023 effort that stalled at the State House. Seven councilors signed the petition, which will be referred to committee for a hearing. Non-citizen immigrants with legal status comprise over 28% of Boston's population and contribute approximately $2.3 billion annually in taxes. Mejia framed the measure as a response to increased anti-immigrant rhetoric and deportation concerns under the Trump administration. Supporters argue that legal residents who pay taxes and invest in the community should have voting rights in decisions affecting schools, housing, and daily life.
Read at Boston.com
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