287(g) Cooperation Act of 2026
- Sponsor
- Rep. Cline, Ben [R-VA-6]
- Committees
- Judiciary Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Mar 25, 2026
Bottom line
The bill links eligibility for federal policing grants to local law enforcement's participation in immigration enforcement partnerships with ICE.
What it actually does
This bill amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to require state and local law enforcement agencies to enter into a 287(g) memorandum of agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) within 180 days of the bill's enactment to remain eligible for federal Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) grants. It mandates that the Attorney General consult with the Secretary of Homeland Security to verify compliance before awarding such grants, starting in fiscal year 2027.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue this bill strengthens immigration enforcement by incentivizing local cooperation with federal authorities, thereby enhancing public safety and national security. They contend that local law enforcement agencies are critical partners in identifying and detaining undocumented individuals who may pose a threat, and that federal funding should support agencies willing to uphold immigration laws.
Opponents contend
Opponents argue that this bill federalizes local police, diverting their resources from community policing to immigration enforcement, which could erode trust between immigrant communities and local law enforcement. They contend that making COPS grants conditional on 287(g) participation could disproportionately harm communities that choose not to engage in immigration enforcement, potentially reducing their capacity to address local crime.
The bill text is very short and straightforward, allowing for quick comprehension of its core mechanism.
Section 2, amending Section 287(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1357(g))
Conditionality of COPS Grants on 287(g) Program Participation
This provision makes it mandatory for any state or local law enforcement agency to have a written agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under the 287(g) program. If an agency does not enter into such an agreement within 180 days of this bill becoming law, it will no longer be able to apply for or receive federal Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) grants from the Department of Justice, starting with fiscal year 2027.
Supporters argue
Proponents argue this provision ensures that federal funds for policing are directed to agencies that actively support federal immigration laws, enhancing overall national security and border integrity. They believe it promotes a consistent approach to immigration enforcement across jurisdictions.
Critics contend
Opponents contend that this provision coerces local agencies into federal immigration enforcement, potentially straining local budgets and diverting resources from addressing local crime. They argue it could foster distrust within immigrant communities, making them less likely to report crimes or cooperate with police.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the federal government's interest in consistent immigration enforcement with local control over policing priorities and the potential impact on community relations and local public safety resources.