Multiple States Propose Laws Restricting ICE Enforcement Tactics

State legislators in Michigan, Maine, and Montana are introducing accountability packages to restrict the activities of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) following a surge in federal enforcement and reports of agent misconduct. The proposed measures across these states focus on prohibiting agents from entering sensitive locations—such as schools, hospitals, and houses of worship—without a judicial warrant.

In Michigan, the Senate Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety Committee held hearings for a three-bill package. The legislation would ban agents from sensitive areas, prohibit state agencies from sharing personal information with ICE without warrants, and forbid law enforcement from wearing masks during public interactions. While Democratic supporters argue the bills restore community trust, Republican Senator Jim Runestad dismissed the hearings as a "kangaroo court."

In Maine, Governor Janet Mills and Representative Ellie Sato are advocating for LD 2106, which would require judicial warrants for ICE to enter public facilities and access records. This effort follows a period of enhanced ICE activity in the state that resulted in over 200 arrests. While the bill has advanced to a work session, the University of Maine System and school superintendents expressed concerns regarding potential conflicts with federal law.

Montana's legislative push, led by State Senator Ellie Boldman, focuses on transparency and banning masks, sparked by the deaths of two people killed by ICE agents in Minneapolis. Opposition from Republican Senator Barry Usher centers on the Constitution's supremacy clause, arguing that states cannot dictate federal law enforcement operations.