A bill to prohibit immigration enforcement actions at child care facilities.
- Sponsor
- Sen. Murphy, Christopher [D-CT]
- Committees
- Judiciary Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Sep 17, 2026
Bottom line
This bill designates child care facilities as sensitive locations where immigration enforcement is forbidden, aiming to protect children and ensure immigrant families can access essential child care services without fear of apprehension.
What it actually does
This bill explicitly prohibits any agent, officer, or employee of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), or anyone acting under their authority, from conducting immigration enforcement actions at child care facilities. The intent is to create protected spaces where children can receive care without fear of their families being subject to immigration enforcement.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill is essential for protecting vulnerable children from the trauma of witnessing immigration enforcement activities, ensuring their safety and well-being. They contend it aligns with existing policies that designate schools and hospitals as sensitive locations, promoting access to critical services for all families regardless of immigration status.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that this prohibition could create 'sanctuary' zones within child care facilities, potentially hindering the Department of Homeland Security's ability to enforce immigration laws. They may contend that it could be exploited by individuals seeking to evade lawful apprehension, thereby undermining the integrity of the immigration system.
The bill is exceptionally short and clearly written, making it very accessible for any reader to understand its core intent and provisions quickly.
Section 1
Restriction of Immigration Enforcement Actions at Child Care Facilities
This section establishes a clear prohibition: no Department of Homeland Security (DHS) agent, officer, employee, or any person acting under their authority, is permitted to conduct any immigration enforcement action at a child care facility. This means activities such as arrests, searches, surveillance, or interviews related to immigration status are explicitly forbidden within these locations.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision is crucial for protecting vulnerable children from the trauma of witnessing immigration enforcement actions, ensuring they can access essential care and education without fear. It also helps maintain the integrity of child care facilities as safe, neutral spaces dedicated to child development.
Critics contend
Critics might contend that this provision could create 'sanctuary' spaces within child care facilities, potentially allowing individuals who are subject to immigration enforcement to evade apprehension, thereby hindering the enforcement of immigration laws and potentially compromising public safety.
Tradeoffs
The bill navigates the tension between the humanitarian concern for children's well-being and uninterrupted access to care, and the government's interest in comprehensive immigration enforcement. It seeks to balance these competing priorities by designating specific locations as off-limits for enforcement.