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Bill

SB 1141

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement; transfer of certain incarcerated persons.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Danny Diggs and 2 co-sponsors

Virginia bill authorizes state prison officials to transfer certain incarcerated non-citizens to ICE custody for potential deportation proceedings.

Passed by indefinitely in Courts of Justice (8-Y 7-N)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1141

Legislative bill overview

SB 1141 would establish procedures for Virginia to transfer certain incarcerated individuals to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody when they are identified as deportable aliens. The bill creates a framework allowing state corrections officials to coordinate with federal immigration authorities regarding eligible detainees in Virginia's prison system.

Why is this important

This bill directly affects how Virginia handles immigration enforcement within its criminal justice system, potentially accelerating deportations of non-citizens convicted of crimes. It reflects broader policy debates about state-federal cooperation on immigration and has practical implications for thousands of incarcerated individuals and their families.

Potential points of contention

  • Due process concerns: Critics may argue the bill doesn't adequately protect individuals' rights to legal representation or appeal before transfer, particularly for those with U.S. citizen family members or long-term Virginia residency
  • Sanctuary jurisdiction principles: The bill may conflict with Virginia localities' policies limiting cooperation with ICE, creating jurisdictional conflicts between state mandate and local enforcement preferences
  • Implementation costs and liability: Questions about who bears costs for transfers, potential legal liability for wrongful transfers, and administrative burden on corrections staff remain unclear

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

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