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Bill would bar sanctuary policies and require local cooperation with federal immigration detainers; hearings spotlight jail costs and local control
Summary
HB 511 would ban sanctuary policies and require state and local law‑enforcement cooperation with federal immigration authorities, including honoring detainers; proponents emphasized public safety, opponents warned of unfunded mandates, legal liability and damage to community policing.
Representative Joe Sweeney introduced HB 511, a measure the sponsor described as outlawing sanctuary policies in New Hampshire and directing law enforcement agencies to cooperate with federal immigration authorities and to honor lawful immigration detainers.
Representative Joe Sweeney (Rockingham District 25) told the committee, “If you are here illegally, you are not welcome in New Hampshire,” and urged support for legislation that would require local agencies to comply with federal immigration law and detainer requests. He said the measure includes protections for victims and witnesses of serious crimes while emphasizing cooperation with federal authorities.
Public testimony was strongly divided. Supporters argued the bill promotes public safety and ensures that local jurisdictions do not shield people subject to federal removal. Michael Lambert and others urged…
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