Philadelphia Council Proposes “ICE Out” Bill to Restrict ICE Collaboration
Philadelphia City Council has introduced a significant legislative package aimed at limiting collaboration between local agencies and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This initiative, known as the “ICE Out” bill, is designed to enhance the city’s existing Welcoming City policies.
Overview of the ICE Out Bill
The “ICE Out” package consists of seven separate bills. Council Minority Leader Kendra Brooks and Councilmember At-Large Rue Landau spearheaded the proposal, which they claim is the most comprehensive set of legislation regarding ICE in the United States.
Key Features of the Legislation
- The bills will prevent city agencies from collaborating with ICE.
- ICE agents will be banned from wearing face masks while performing their duties.
- An executive order will be codified that stops local police from acting as ICE agents.
- City employees will be barred from granting ICE access to city-owned spaces without a judicial warrant.
- City agencies will not collect or share immigration status information with ICE.
Background and Rationale
The introduction of this legislative package occurred amidst growing concerns over ICE-related violence and recent incidents, including the death of an individual in ICE custody in Philadelphia. Council President Kenyatta Johnson emphasized the importance of local leadership on such critical issues, stating that the majority of council members support these new measures.
Councilmembers Brooks and Landau expressed their intent to ensure that residents feel safe and protected from federal intimidation. They collaborated with various immigration and community organizations to develop this legislation, reflecting the needs and concerns of Philadelphia’s diverse population.
Community Response
Next Steps
As the “ICE Out” bills move forward, they will be assigned to committees for further review. While no votes have been scheduled yet, the councilmembers aim to initiate a transformative approach to how ICE operates within the city.
Philadelphia’s commitment to restricting ICE activities exemplifies its dedication to creating an environment where all residents can feel secure, regardless of their immigration status. This legislative move symbolizes a broader shift in how cities may respond to immigration enforcement practices across the United States.
