Sanctuary Cities Sanctuary Cities
Sanctuary Cities are cities and counties that limit cooperation between local police and federal immigration services (ICE). Here, local authorities do not help ICE detain immigrants.
California
New York
Illinois
Washington
Oregon
Colorado
New Jersey
Massachusetts
Nevada
New Mexico
Connecticut
Texas
Florida
Arizona
Georgia
What You Need to Know About Sanctuary Cities
What IS Protected
- •Local police will not ask about your immigration status
- •Police do not share data with ICE without a court order
- •You won't be detained longer just for ICE
- •You can report to police as a crime victim
What is NOT Protected
- •ICE can still operate in these cities
- •Federal buildings (courts, post office) are not protected
- •Airports and borders are under federal jurisdiction
- •Serious criminal cases may be exceptions
Legal Status
Sanctuary policy is legal. The federal government cannot force local authorities to perform immigration functions (Printz v. United States, 1997). However, in 2026 the situation may change — follow the news.
Recommendations
Even in sanctuary cities, it's important to know your rights and have a plan in case of an ICE encounter. Keep a lawyer's contact, prepare documents for children, and always carry a rights card.
Sanctuary States
These states have passed laws limiting cooperation with ICE at the state level
California
Since 2017
SB 54 California Values Act
Oregon
Since 1987
ORS 181A.820
Colorado
Since 2019
SB 19-172
Illinois
Since 2017
Illinois TRUST Act
New Jersey
Since 2018
Immigrant Trust Directive
Washington
Since 2019
Keep Washington Working Act
Important to Remember
Sanctuary status may change. In 2026, the federal government is actively trying to repeal these laws. Always check current information and have a lawyer's contact regardless of where you live.