SB 54 (De León, 2017) designated California as a sanctuary state, restricting the use of state and local resources for federal immigration enforcement. However, the law included exceptions allowing—though not requiring—local law enforcement to cooperate with ICE for individuals convicted of specified felonies, including serious or violent crimes, child abuse, unlawful weapon possession or use, trafficking controlled substances, human trafficking, rape, kidnapping, torture and those on the Sex and Arson Registry.
San Diego County recently passed an ordinance declaring itself a “Super Sanctuary County,” banning law enforcement from cooperating with ICE for any offense—even those exempted under SB 54—unless a federal warrant is issued. This ordinance makes it easier for undocumented immigrants with convictions of violent crimes, gang activity, or weapons offenses to return to San Diego County streets. This ordinance not only undermines public safety but also increases the county’s misalignment with federal law.
I support Senate Bill 554, which prevents local jurisdictions from further restricting cooperation with federal immigration enforcement beyond what SB 54 already prescribes. It also mandates that local law enforcement cooperate with ICE in cases where SB 54 simply allows it, ensuring violent offenders are not shielded from federal immigration authorities. This bill will help keep the public safe.