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Emigration and immigration

Risch Introduces 287(g) Program Protection Act to Strengthen Immigration Enforcement

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) has introduced the 287(g) Program Protection Act to streamline and strengthen partnerships between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities. The bill seeks to address the backlog of 287(g) program applications created by the Biden administration, which refused to process new applications, resulting in a significant backlog. The legislation aims to empower local law enforcement to assist ICE in identifying and detaining illegal immigrants in communities.

Key Takeaways:

  • The 287(g) Program Protection Act requires DHS to approve or deny 287(g) applications within 90 days, providing a structured and transparent framework for local agencies to participate in federal enforcement efforts.
  • The bill allows for the termination of existing 287(g) agreements without cause or prior notice to Congress, addressing concerns raised by local law enforcement agencies.
  • Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris has expressed support for the bill, highlighting the importance of the 287(g) program in supporting public safety and border integrity.
  • The 287(g) program enables state and local law enforcement agencies to partner with ICE to carry out critical immigration functions.
  • Senator Risch is joined by several co-sponsors in introducing the bill, including Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Roger Marshall (R-Kansas), Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), and Rick Scott (R-Fla.).
  • Representative Michael Cloud (R-Texas) has introduced a companion bill in the House of Representatives.

Statistics:

  • The Biden administration refused to process new 287(g) program applications, resulting in a significant backlog.
  • President Trump issued an executive order in January 2025 to address the backlog and approve hundreds of 287(g) agreements.
  • The 287(g) Progam Protection Act aims to require DHS to approve or deny 287(g) applications within 90 days.
  • The bill seeks to prohibit DHS from terminating any existing 287(g) agreement without cause or prior notice to Congress.

Sources:

  • Statement by Idaho Sen. James E. Risch
  • Statement by Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris
  • The 287(g) Program Protection Act (introduced by Senator Risch)
  • Executive Order issued by President Trump (January 2025)
  • Companion bill introduced by Representative Michael Cloud (R-Texas)

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