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Michigan House approves bills restricting local limits on cooperation with federal immigration authorities
Summary
The Michigan House passed a package of bills that prohibit local governments from adopting policies that limit cooperation or communication with federal immigration officials and authorize withholding certain state funds from jurisdictions with sanctuary policies.
LANSING — The Michigan House on a party-line vote passed a package of bills aimed at limiting so-called sanctuary policies and increasing state oversight of local cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Lawmakers approved House Bill 4,338, House Bill 4,339 and House Bill 4,342 after floor debate that centered on public safety, state authority and local control.
Supporters said the bills protect public safety and the rule of law. “This legislation does not target immigrants. It targets lawlessness,” Representative DeSena said on the floor, adding the bills would allow the state treasurer to withhold funds from local governments that “have adopted a sanctuary policy.”
Opponents warned the bills could undermine community safety and local autonomy. “They tie the hands of law enforcement, diverting them to enforce federal immigration policy,” Representative Miller said. “These bills discourage crime reporting from immigrant communities, putting others at risk.”
The package includes bills with overlapping aims: a measure barring local units of government from enacting laws or policies that limit local officials or employees from communicating or cooperating with federal authorities, a companion bill with similar language aimed at counties, and a statute authorizing the state to withhold certain revenue-sharing funds from jurisdictions that adopt sanctuary policies. Sponsors described reporting requirements and withholding authority as tools to ensure accountability.
After a roll-call vote, House Bill 4,338 and House Bill 4,339 each passed 58–48 and House Bill 4,342 passed 57–49. Each bill’s passage was followed by a motion for immediate effect, which the chamber ordered.
The debate on the floor included references to a 2023 Department of Homeland Security report cited by supporters that, they said, showed instances of criminal noncitizens being released by sanctuary jurisdictions. Opponents countered by arguing the bills would prompt costly litigation and erode trust between immigrant communities and local police.
No additional implementation timeline or rulemaking details were provided on the floor; sponsors said the state treasurer and other agencies would have roles under the bills’ language. The bills will move next according to the Legislature’s process for enrollment and transmission to the governor.
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Details from the House session: House Bill 4,338 passed 58–48; House Bill 4,339 passed 58–48; House Bill 4,342 passed 57–49. Votes were recorded on the House floor.
