WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 8347

AN ACT RELATING TO STATE AFFAIRS AND GOVERNMENT -- RESTRICTIONS ON STATE AND MUNICIPAL COOPERATION WITH CIVIL IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Karen Alzate and 7 co-sponsors

Rhode Island bill restricts state and local agencies from assisting federal civil immigration enforcement, aiming to protect immigrant communities and redirect agency resources to local priorities.

04/03/2026 Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration (04/09/2026)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 8347

Legislative bill overview

HB 8347 would restrict Rhode Island state and municipal agencies from cooperating with federal civil immigration enforcement efforts, except when required by law or in response to criminal investigations. The bill appears designed to limit local involvement in federal immigration enforcement operations and protect state/local resources from being diverted to immigration matters.

Why is this important

This bill directly affects how local police and government agencies interact with federal immigration authorities (primarily ICE). It has real consequences for immigrant communities' trust in local institutions, law enforcement effectiveness, and resource allocation—as agencies currently spend time and money on immigration-related enforcement that could go elsewhere.

Potential points of contention

  • Sanctuary jurisdiction debate: Opponents argue restricting cooperation undermines federal law enforcement authority and creates inconsistent immigration enforcement across the country; supporters contend states have rights to limit involvement in federal programs
  • Public safety framing: Disagreement over whether immigration enforcement is a public safety priority or a civil administrative matter that diverts resources from core local policing
  • Legal liability and mandates: Questions about whether federal law (like 8 U.S.C. § 1373) preempts Rhode Island's restrictions, potentially exposing the state to federal funding penalties or legal challenges

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.