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Bill

SB 517

Law Enforcement Officers and Agencies; use of immigration detention centers in this state for two years; prohibit

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tonya Anderson and 8 co-sponsors

Georgia SB 517 prohibits state and local law enforcement from using immigration detention centers for two years, restricting police-ICE cooperation on detention matters.

Senate Read and Referred
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Bill Summary · SB 517

Legislative bill overview

SB 517 would prohibit law enforcement officers and agencies in Georgia from using immigration detention centers within the state for a two-year period. The bill appears designed to restrict collaboration between local/state police and federal immigration authorities by limiting access to detention facilities.

Why is this important

This bill directly affects how law enforcement coordinates with immigration enforcement, potentially impacting detention practices and federal-state law enforcement cooperation. It raises questions about resource allocation, detention capacity management, and the relationship between state/local police and federal immigration agencies like ICE.

Potential points of contention

  • Federalism concerns: States have limited authority to restrict how federal agencies operate, and this bill's enforceability against federal detention facilities may face constitutional challenges
  • Law enforcement coordination: Police may argue the restriction hampers their ability to work with federal partners on cases involving detained individuals or immigration-related investigations
  • Temporary vs. permanent solution: The two-year sunset provision suggests this is exploratory, but critics may question whether a temporary ban provides meaningful policy change or creates uncertainty for agencies

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

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