A new immigration bill aims to limit Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrests in sensitive locations such as schools, hospitals, and places of worship, reviving previous protections once enforced by the Department of Homeland Security.
Bipartisan Effort to Reinstate and Expand Protections
U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet, joined by 19 other lawmakers, introduced the Protecting Sensitive Locations Act on Monday. The legislation seeks to restore the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) former policy restricting ICE enforcement actions in certain public spaces.
Under the bill, the list of protected locations would grow to include:
- Courthouses
- Additional healthcare facilities
- Expanded educational institutions
- Religious establishments beyond current protections
Exceptions and Oversight Measures Included
While the proposed law places limits on ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) operations, officials say exceptions will apply in specific situations, such as matters involving national security or immediate threats to public safety.
The bill also introduces new accountability measures. ICE and CBP agents would be required to undergo specialized training on enforcement procedures, ensuring compliance with the law’s restrictions. Additionally, the agencies would need to submit annual reports to Congress detailing enforcement actions in sensitive locations.
Political Landscape and Legislative Outlook
With immigration remaining a divisive issue, the bill’s path through Congress is uncertain. Supporters argue it upholds humanitarian principles and prevents fear-based deterrence from essential public services, while critics claim it could impede enforcement efforts.
The bill’s introduction marks the latest effort in an ongoing debate over balancing immigration enforcement with civil rights protections.
