Maine implements law limiting police contact with immigration agencies

A new law in Maine, which took effect on July 29, restricts local police and sheriff’s deputies from inquiring about an individual’s immigration status or sharing personal information with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

Exceptions to these restrictions apply when the information is necessary for investigations into state or federal criminal matters, such as terrorism or human trafficking. Additionally, jail staff are prohibited from honoring ICE hold requests intended solely for civil detention purposes.

Law enforcement officials have expressed concerns that the law limits access to Department of Homeland Security resources, including translation services and non-criminal background information. Conversely, immigrants’ rights advocates and the ACLU of Maine argue the law prevents the misuse of local resources. The ACLU of Maine has issued guidance to over 100 police departments and 16 sheriff’s offices to ensure compliance with the new regulations.