Irving City Council Passes Resolution Prohibiting Foreign Law
IRVING (CBSDFW.COM) - Dozens of Muslims in Irving are upset after the city council passed a resolution in support of a new state house bill some Muslims believe targets their faith.
Council members voted Thursday night on a resolution that support Texas HB 562, which forbids the use of foreign law and codifies the supremacy of U.S. and state law.
"I think it's the most disgraceful day in the city of Irving," said Omar Suleiman, an Irving resident who is Muslim. "The elephant in the room is that it's the anti-Shariah bill."
Some Muslims in Irving believe the resolution is in reaction to a new Islamic Tribunal that is operating in the city.
Judges had previously told community members their work is non-binding and they only deal with civil disputes like marriage. They also said U.S. and state laws supersede any decisions they make.
"This bill does not mention at all Muslims, Shariah Law, Islam, even religion," said Mayor Beth Van Duyne.
Mayor Beth Van Duyne said it is important to recognize the constitution and unite behind U.S. and Texas laws.
"Respect them, obey them, embrace them," said the mayor.
Many Muslims said all they can do is take use their feelings the next time they vote.
