January 20th 2024.
Wynne Transportation LLC, a bus company based in Texas, is taking legal action against the city of Chicago. The company is challenging the constitutionality of an ordinance that restricts the drop-off of migrants, according to a report from CNN. On January 5th, Wynne Transportation LLC filed a lawsuit claiming that the ordinance violates both the U.S. Constitution and the Illinois Constitution. The company is seeking declaratory judgment and injunctive relief from the city.
This lawsuit is in response to a December ordinance that imposes strict measures on bus companies. These measures include the potential seizure and impoundment of buses, fines up to $3,000, and towing and storage fees for unloading migrant passengers outside of designated hours and locations without a permit. Bus companies are also required to give advance notice and obtain approval from the city before dropping off migrants at designated landing zones.
Wynne Transportation LLC argues that this ordinance makes it difficult for migrants to enter Chicago by imposing excessive requirements and harsh penalties. The company believes that this ordinance infringes on constitutional rights and impedes migrants from reaching their desired destination in Chicago.
The lawsuit also claims that the ordinance violates the supremacy clause of the U.S. Constitution, which states that federal law takes precedence over state and local laws. The company argues that the ordinance interferes with the federal government's authority to set immigration policy. Additionally, the lawsuit alleges a violation of the Illinois Constitution's prohibition of special legislation.
The lawsuit emphasizes the broader implications for migrants seeking sanctuary in the city, stating, "This case is about allowing immigrants the opportunity to call Chicago home." Attorney Mike Kozlowski, representing Wynne Transportation, expressed surprise at the city's enforcement of an ordinance that has been deemed unconstitutional. He stated, "I'm a little surprised, quite frankly, to see that the city has passed an ordinance, which is so clearly unconstitutional, and then is aggressively pursuing enforcement of that ordinance by filing 95 different lawsuits against these companies."
This legal dispute takes place against the backdrop of Texas Governor Greg Abbott bussing nearly 30,000 migrants to Chicago since the summer of 2022, despite Chicago being a sanctuary city. The lawsuit reflects the tension between state and city policies regarding immigration and transportation of migrants.
In addition to seeking injunctive relief, Wynne Transportation LLC is also seeking compensatory damages, attorney's fees, and costs. This case highlights the complexities and legal challenges that arise from the intersection of state and local regulations in the context of immigration and sanctuary city policies.
This lawsuit is just one example of the ongoing debate and controversies surrounding immigration policies in the United States. It also highlights the need for a comprehensive and cohesive approach to immigration that takes into account both federal and local laws.
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