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Bill

SB 783

Law-enforcement agencies; agreements with federal authority for immigration enforcement.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jennifer Boysko and 6 co-sponsors

Authorizes Virginia local law enforcement and municipalities to enter formal agreements with federal immigration authorities for immigration enforcement operations and cooperation.

Governor's recommendation received by Senate
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 783

Legislative bill overview

SB 783 would authorize local law enforcement agencies and localities in Virginia to enter into agreements with federal immigration authorities for immigration enforcement activities. The bill establishes a framework allowing police departments and county/city governments to formally cooperate with federal agencies on immigration-related matters.

Why is this important

Immigration enforcement coordination between local and federal authorities directly affects how immigrants are identified, detained, and processed in Virginia communities. This legislation determines whether local police resources will be directed toward federal immigration priorities, which impacts both public safety strategy and immigrant communities' trust in local law enforcement.

Potential points of contention

  • Public safety vs. community relations: Local police argue cooperation improves security; critics contend it damages immigrant communities' willingness to report crimes and cooperate with investigations
  • Resource allocation: Questions about whether local law enforcement budgets should fund federal immigration priorities versus community policing priorities
  • Scope of enforcement: Disagreement over which immigration violations warrant local involvement and whether agreements could expand beyond federal immigration law into other enforcement areas
  • Accountability and oversight: Concerns about the level of local control, transparency, and accountability in agreements with federal authorities

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

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