Lansing council adopts resolution opposing ICE officers' use of face coverings that conceal identity
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Summary
Lansing City Council on Jan. 26 adopted a late resolution opposing the use of masks or face coverings by ICE officers that conceal identity during civil immigration enforcement in the city, urging the mayor and city attorney to work with immigrant‑rights experts on a policy; the measure was presented as a non‑enforceable statement of opposition.
Lansing City Council voted unanimously Jan. 26 to adopt a late resolution formally opposing the use of masks or other face coverings by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers that conceal identity during civil immigration enforcement activities in the city.
Council Member Pelotonico introduced and read substantive portions of the resolution, saying the measure aims to protect transparency and public trust. The resolution notes concerns that obscured identification can “undermine transparency, obscure identification, and erode public trust,” and it asks the mayor and city attorney to consult with legal subject‑matter experts and immigrant‑rights organizations to develop a proposed city policy consistent with those aims.
Supporters framed the vote as a statement of values rather than a new law. Council Member Costa said he supported the resolution but emphasized it is “a statement of opposition” and not an ordinance or enforcement mechanism, warning that it should not be interpreted as authorization for private citizens to confront officers. Council Member McCarter urged the city and administration to begin planning practical protections and coordinated responses that would help residents if federal enforcement actions occur locally.
In debate, members and the mayor acknowledged limits to the city’s legal authority—ICE is a federal agency—but said the city has a role in advocating for practices that promote civil rights and community trust. The adopted resolution reaffirms Lansing’s stated commitment to being a welcoming community, encourages the mayor and city attorney to develop policy proposals with outside experts, and urges other regional governments and institutions to consider similar statements.
The council adopted the resolution after members discussed safety and enforcement concerns and affirmed the measure’s symbolic and advocacy purpose. The resolution will be forwarded to the mayor and the city attorney’s office for the collaborative policy development it requests.
