Overview
- Attorney General Austin Knudsen announced an investigation into whether Helena’s January 26 resolution violates House Bill 200, with Governor Greg Gianforte joining the announcement.
- HB 200 prohibits policies that block communication with federal immigration agencies and requires compliance with lawful detainer requests.
- If found in violation, the city could face $10,000 fines every five days, restrictions on new state grants, and state project reprioritization, with a 14‑day window to cure noncompliance.
- Helena officials said they have not received formal notice of the probe and maintain the resolution complies with state and federal law.
- The resolution, passed 4–1, supports limiting local resources for federal immigration actions, bars stops or arrests based solely on immigration violations, and restricts disclosure of sensitive personal information except as required by law.