No DOT Funds for Sanctuary Cities Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Johnson, Dusty [R-SD-At Large]
- Committees
- Transportation and Infrastructure Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jul 21, 2025
Bottom line
This bill seeks to compel state and local governments to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement by withholding Department of Transportation funding, potentially impacting critical infrastructure and local autonomy.
What it actually does
This bill prohibits the Secretary of Transportation from providing any grants, awards, or federal funds to jurisdictions defined as 'sanctuary cities.' It includes a limited waiver provision allowing the Secretary to override the prohibition on a case-by-case basis if certified to be in the national interest, with prior notification to Congress. The bill also provides a specific definition for what constitutes a 'sanctuary city' based on policies restricting cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that the bill ensures federal funds are not used to undermine federal immigration laws, promotes public safety by facilitating cooperation between local and federal authorities, and upholds the rule of law by requiring jurisdictions to assist in immigration enforcement efforts.
Opponents contend
Opponents contend that this bill would punish cities for local policies designed to foster trust between immigrant communities and local law enforcement, potentially jeopardize critical transportation infrastructure projects, and could lead to racial profiling and increased distrust within communities.
The bill is very short and easy to read, allowing ample time for evaluation of its core provisions.
Section 2(a)
General Prohibition on Funding
This provision explicitly states that the Secretary of Transportation is forbidden from providing any grants, awards, or federal funds to any state or political subdivision that meets the definition of a 'sanctuary city.' This prohibition applies notwithstanding any other provision of law, making it a direct and overriding restriction on DOT funding.
Supporters argue
Proponents argue this provision is necessary to ensure federal funds are not used to support policies that hinder federal immigration enforcement, thereby upholding national security and the rule of law by compelling local cooperation.
Critics contend
Opponents argue this provision is a coercive measure that punishes local jurisdictions for adopting policies they believe foster trust between communities and local law enforcement, potentially harming essential transportation projects and services.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances federal immigration enforcement priorities against local autonomy and the need for federal investment in transportation infrastructure, creating a direct tension between these objectives.
Section 2(b)
Secretary's Waiver Authority
This section grants the Secretary of Transportation the authority to waive the funding prohibition on a case-by-case basis. To do so, the Secretary must submit a written certification to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, at least 15 days prior, stating that the activity for which the waiver is granted is in the national interest of the United States.
Section 2(c)
Definition of 'Sanctuary City'
This section defines a 'sanctuary city' as any state or local government entity that has a policy or practice prohibiting or restricting its officials from sharing information about an individual's citizenship or immigration status with federal, state, or local government entities. It also includes jurisdictions that prohibit or restrict compliance with lawful Department of Homeland Security (DHS) requests for detainers or notification about the release of individuals under specific sections of the Immigration and Nationality Act.