Here's a controversy for commercial practitioners, civil rights advocates and U.S citizens to think about. The Business Journal reported a proposed ordinance in Dallas that requires apartment complexes to screen for U.S. citizenship or legal residence before they can accept an applicant. I can see why this is so controversial because it crosses the line on many things Texans are proud of, such as which is property rights and the right to vote.
THE ISSUE
According to the article, Ordinance 2903 requires apartment owners and managers to collect proof of citizenship or proof of legal residence from people who want to rent apartments or renew their leases. Farmers Branch voters will vote on the ordinance on May 12.
In fairness, I read the other side to this issue, which is that the purpose of this ordinance is to force apartment managers to follow the law. The City Council passed the ordinance unanimously in November. One contention is that they didn't get any input or require a vote from their constituents.
OUR OPINION
While Texas is facing issues with illegal immigration, we need to be careful about passing local ordinances that do not allow the U.S. solve the problem first. Although we can all agree that illegal immigration is a problem, we can create a slippery slope we we try to tackle it in City Council, especially without input from the people they represent.
I disagree with passing such a controversial ordinance without a proper vote even though each side has valid points. City Council has a right to act on our behalves, but I'm glad they decided to take this one back to the public.
Read more: Apartment association opposes Farmers Branch ordinance. Learn more about the PRO ordinance movement. Let us know what you think. Have the proponents of the ordinance gone to far or is this a valid solution?
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