Iowa House Bill HSB282

Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/4/25
• Refer: 3/4/25

Caption

A bill for an act relating to cooperation by public and private schools with federal immigration and customs enforcement officers.

Impact

The proposed legislation has significant ramifications for existing educational policies and practices regarding immigration issues. By enforcing this cooperation, the bill could lead to increased collaboration between schools and federal authorities, potentially affecting students and families within the educational framework. If schools fail to comply, various ramifications are specified including the risk of deaccreditation and loss of state recognition. This could lead to a considerable impact on school districts, particularly those with higher populations of immigrant students who may feel threatened by increased immigration oversight.

Summary

House Study Bill 282 seeks to establish a legal framework that mandates public and private schools, including charter and innovation zone schools, to fully cooperate with federal immigration and customs enforcement (ICE) officers. The bill stipulates that these educational institutions cannot adopt any policies that prohibit or discourage their employees from assisting with lawful requests from ICE. This move is aimed at ensuring compliance with federal immigration laws within the educational system, a controversial aspect that aligns schools closer with federal enforcement agencies.

Conclusion

In summary, House Study Bill 282 reflects the ongoing national dialogue surrounding immigration and education, spotlighting the tension between federal mandates and local educational autonomy. Its advancement could set a precedent for how schools interface with local communities and the federal government, thereby reshaping the educational landscape in Iowa.

Contention

Critics of HSB282 argue that the bill could create a hostile environment in schools for undocumented students and their families, exacerbating fears surrounding deportation and restricting access to education. There are concerns that such measures might undermine trust between students and educational institutions, deterring families from seeking necessary support. The bill also raises ethical questions regarding the role of educational institutions in enforcing federal laws concerning immigration, positioning schools not just as places of learning but also as extensions of federal enforcement agencies.