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Senators consider SB 71 to bar local sanctuary policies; testimony split over public safety and local control
Summary
SB 71 would prohibit any municipal sanctuary policy that limits cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Supporters said it strengthens public safety; opponents said immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility and warned of mandates overriding municipal oversight and of community trust harms.
Sen. Bill Gannon introduced Senate Bill 71 to prohibit municipal or county “sanctuary” policies that limit communication or cooperation with federal immigration authorities. “It is our responsibility to the residents of New Hampshire to make it known that the only immigration New Hampshire welcomes…is legal immigration,” Gannon said when introducing the measure.
Proponents framed SB 71 as an anti‑sanctuary statute that would keep local jurisdictions from enacting ordinances or policies that impede federal immigration enforcement. Supporters told the committee they had repeatedly heard public safety concerns at the door and cited ICE and other enforcement data. Rep. Janine Nader and Sen. Tim McHugh offered…
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