Mayor Muriel Bowser has ignited controversy with her proposed 2026 budget, which includes a quiet but major policy shift—repealing the District’s long-standing sanctuary city law.
The proposed repeal would end current limits on the Metropolitan Police Department’s cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This means D.C. police could once again detain undocumented immigrants on behalf of ICE and share information about residents’ immigration status—something prohibited under current law.
The change, first flagged by journalist Martin Austermuhle, wasn’t publicly announced but appears in the fine print of Bowser’s newly released budget proposal. The move shocked many, especially since Bowser previously branded D.C. a “proud sanctuary city” in 2019.
What Sanctuary City Status Means
D.C.’s sanctuary city policies prevent local police and government agencies from honoring ICE detainer requests without a judicial warrant. They also bar city agencies from asking about or sharing immigration status with federal officials. These rules were intended to build trust between immigrant communities and law enforcement.
Under the proposed budget, these protections would be removed, allowing local law enforcement to actively work with ICE again.
Why the Change?
Bowser’s office says the repeal reflects “realities on the ground” and claims it’s part of a broader effort to support public safety.
However, immigrant advocates and lawmakers are alarmed. Congressman Adriano Espaillat (D-NY), Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, blasted the proposal, saying it puts immigrant families at risk and undermines police-community relations.
Federal Pressure Mounts
The proposal comes amid a wave of immigration enforcement in the D.C. region. Earlier this month, ICE arrested 189 undocumented immigrants in the city during a national crackdown ordered by the Trump administration.
The ICE website emphasizes the need for local cooperation, often citing sanctuary policies as a barrier to public safety. Federal pressure on non-cooperative cities has increased, with threats of funding cuts and legal challenges.
This growing tension between local and federal authorities may have played a role in the mayor’s shift in stance.
Backlash from Advocates and Councilmembers
Immigrant rights groups have responded strongly, warning that the repeal could lead to more fear in immigrant communities, discourage crime reporting, and increase racial profiling.
Progressive D.C. Councilmembers are expected to challenge the repeal. The budget, including this proposed change, is now under review and will be debated before a final vote by late July.
Residents can track updates and participate in the process through the D.C. Council’s official site.
Until the council makes a final decision, D.C.’s sanctuary city status remains in place.