ICE proposes liability insurance for local officers making immigration arrests

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has proposed a plan to subsidize professional liability insurance for state and local law enforcement officers participating in the 287(g) program. The initiative aims to shield officers from personal financial consequences, such as legal defense fees, settlements, and judgments, if they face allegations of misconduct during immigration-related arrests.

Under the proposal, participating officers could purchase up to $500,000 in liability coverage, with ICE offering annual reimbursements of up to $250 to offset costs. The agency intends to hire a contractor to manage outreach, training, and the administration of these insurance reimbursements for its federal-local partnerships.

Data indicates a significant rise in immigration enforcement activity through these partnerships, with monthly arrests averaging approximately 3,000 in early 2026, compared to a 2024 average of 250. Critics, including David Bier of the Cato Institute, have expressed concern that the program could allow officers to avoid personal accountability for violating civil rights while performing federal duties.