Massachusetts sheriffs urge Governor Healey to amend PROTECT Act

A bipartisan group of 12 Massachusetts sheriffs has requested that Governor Maura Healey amend the PROTECT Act to address what they describe as unintended public safety consequences. In a letter sent on October 22, the sheriffs, including 10 Democrats and two Republicans, argued that the law hinders communication between local law enforcement and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

The current legislation, passed in August, aims to prevent overzealous immigration enforcement by prohibiting sheriffs from notifying ICE before releasing certain individuals. However, the sheriffs noted that the law’s exceptions for violent felony convictions do not apply to pretrial detainees. They expressed concern that this prevents them from alerting federal partners about detainees facing violent, dangerous, or drug-related charges who are subject to immigration detainers.

The issue has become a focal point in the gubernatorial race. Republican candidate Mike Minogue accused the Governor of ignoring the sheriffs’ concerns and questioned if the law puts public safety at risk. Governor Healey defended the PROTECT Act, characterizing ICE as a “rogue agency,” but stated she would continue discussions with the sheriffs regarding their concerns. Following the debate, the Healey campaign announced that the 12 Democratic sheriffs have endorsed her reelection.