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Bill

Bill

SB 11

Local government: other; local government sanctuary policy prohibition act; create. Creates new act.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Bellino

Michigan bill prohibits local "sanctuary policies" that limit police cooperation with federal immigration enforcement agencies.

REFERRED TO COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
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Bill Summary · SB 11

Legislative bill overview

SB 11 creates a new act that prohibits local governments in Michigan from establishing or maintaining "sanctuary policies" — typically policies that limit local law enforcement cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. The bill would preempt local jurisdictions from adopting such policies, requiring them to comply with federal immigration enforcement requests.

Why is this important

This legislation directly addresses the tension between local autonomy and federal immigration enforcement. It affects how local police departments interact with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), potentially impacting community policing relationships, local budget allocations for immigration enforcement, and the legal status of immigrants in Michigan communities.

Potential points of contention

  • Federalism concerns: Whether states should mandate local compliance with federal immigration enforcement versus allowing municipalities to set their own public safety priorities
  • Community trust and policing: Critics argue sanctuary policies improve police-community relations by encouraging immigrant reporting of crimes; supporters counter they obstruct federal law enforcement
  • Unfunded mandates: Questions about whether local law enforcement agencies will receive state/federal funding to support increased immigration enforcement cooperation

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

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