Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Allegheny County Restricts Local Cooperation With ICE After 11–3 Council Vote

The ordinance reflects a wider local turn to curb ICE access to public resources, with Philadelphia set to debate similar bills.

Overview

  • County lawmakers approved a measure that bars county employees from assisting ICE unless required by law or a court order.
  • The vote was 11–3 with one abstention after hours of public testimony, and county police are investigating a threat reported by Council President Pat Catena.
  • County Executive Sara Innamorato said the policy does not stop federal immigration operations and vowed continued partnerships with immigrant- and refugee-serving groups.
  • Supporters argued the limits protect community trust, while opponents warned of reduced information-sharing about violent offenders and other risks.
  • Jurisdictions nationwide are adopting similar limits on ICE use of local property; Montgomery County acted last week, and Philadelphia will hold April 6 hearings on an 'ICE Out' package that would also bar a 287(g) agreement as ICE reports 1,511 such agreements in 39 states and two territories.