Official records and announcements from Virginia's General Assembly

Youngkin Proposes Ban on Sanctuary Cities, Tying State Funding to ICE Compliance

Dec 12, 2024, 10:20 PM

Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin has announced a budget proposal aimed at banning sanctuary cities in the state. The proposal would require local law enforcement and jail directors to fully comply with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detainers and notify ICE 48 hours before releasing an undocumented immigrant who has committed a crime. Localities that fail to comply or enact sanctuary policies would face funding cuts from the state. Youngkin emphasized the need to stop the cycle of violence and crime enabled by some local governments, stating that Virginia is not a sanctuary state. The proposal is part of Youngkin's broader public safety agenda, which includes initiatives like Operation Bold Blue Line, aimed at reducing crime and enhancing community safety across Virginia. State funding for local law enforcement would be contingent on compliance with these requirements.