ICE Proposes Liability Insurance Subsidies for Local Police

The United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has proposed a plan to subsidize professional liability insurance for state and local law enforcement officers deputized under the 287(g) program. According to a Department of Homeland Security planning document, the agency would provide annual reimbursements of up to $250 for officers who purchase personal liability coverage of up to $500,000 to cover legal fees, settlements, and judgments resulting from misconduct allegations, such as wrongful arrest or excessive force.

ICE intends to hire a contractor to manage the insurance vendor and provide training to partners. The initiative seeks to remove financial barriers for local departments whose existing insurance pools may exclude immigration-related work. These partnerships have expanded significantly during President Donald Trump's second term, growing to nearly 1,600 agencies across 32 states. Monthly arrests through these programs rose from an average of 250 in 2024 to approximately 3,000 in early 2026.

The National Sheriffs' Association supports the proposal, noting that immigration enforcement occurs in a high-scrutiny environment with a higher potential for lawsuits. Conversely, the Cato Institute argues the program shields officers from personal accountability for violating civil rights. Some local officials, such as Butler County Sheriff Michael Slupe, have already purchased private insurance for deputies to ensure they are covered during immigration operations.