A 'sanctuary city' is one that welcomes refugees and undocumented immigrants without fear of prosecution or deportation by its municipal agencies. It is an unofficial title, usually designated by executive officials in city government. Both Pittsburgh and Philadelphia have declared themselves 'sanctuary cities.'

Some cities, like Lancaster, haven't officially announced their 'sanctuary city' status, though they make it clear that there would be no collusion between local law enforcement and the federal government in deporting undocumented residents and welcoming refugees.

Last month, the Pennsylvania State Senate approved a bill that would withhold state funds from 'sanctuary cities' that do not share information on undocumented residents with federal authorities. The vote passed the senate 37-12, with every Republican senator and three Democratic senators supporting the bill. The bill would result in a loss of up to $1.3 billion for municipalities seeing as harboring the undocumented.

Supporters of the bill argue they are simply enforcing the rule of law. Opponents regard it as a knee-jerk reaction to addressing "our broken national immigration system."

Lancaster Mayor Rick Gray will join WITF's Smart Talk in studio to discuss the policies he has enacted in his city and how this bill may impact its economy. State Senator Richard Alloway (R-33rd) will also discuss his support for the bill and how he would like to see municipalities interact with the federal government in enforcing immigration law.