Michigan House Bill HB4941

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/11/25
• Refer: 9/11/25

Caption

Alienage: other; certain immigration enforcement agreements; prohibit. Creates new act.

Impact

If enacted, HB 4941 would effectively alter the legal landscape governing the relationship between state, local law enforcement, and federal immigration policies. The prohibition on these agreements means that law enforcement agencies will not enforce federal immigration laws, which some believe can protect undocumented immigrants from potential discrimination and potential overreach by local law enforcement. Supporters of the bill argue that it is necessary to ensure that community safety is prioritized without the added complexities of immigration enforcement, advocating for a focus on local crime rather than immigration status.

Summary

House Bill 4941 seeks to prohibit law enforcement agencies from entering into, modifying, or renewing immigration enforcement agreements with the Department of Homeland Security under section 287(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. The intent of the bill is to limit the involvement of local law enforcement in federal immigration enforcement activities, which some stakeholders argue can lead to distrust between law enforcement and immigrant communities. By restricting these agreements, the bill aims to foster a more positive reporting environment where community members feel safe to engage with law enforcement without the fear of deportation.

Contention

The bill has sparked a range of opinions among lawmakers and communitymembers. Proponents argue that local law enforcement should not act as federal immigration agents and that this measure will help build trust within immigrant communities, ultimately fostering greater cooperation with the police in reporting crimes. Conversely, opponents worry that by restricting the ability of local law enforcement to cooperate with federal immigration agencies, the bill may allow individuals who pose a threat to public safety to evade accountability. This division reflects broader national debates about immigration enforcement, community safety, and the appropriate role of local agencies in matters of federal jurisdiction.