In brief
The investigation into Helena follows the city’s recent resolution which discourages cooperation with federal immigration authorities, potentially putting them at risk of significant fines. Attorney General Austin Knudsen criticized the resolution, while Helena officials maintain that it complies with legal standards. This action highlights the ongoing national debate surrounding sanctuary city policies.
Montana’s Republican attorney general has announced an investigation into the city of Helena for possible violations of the state’s sanctuary city ban after officials in Helena passed a resolution discouraging cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
This investigation arises amidst increasing national tensions surrounding President Donald Trump’s stringent immigration laws, which have ignited protests across various cities. Trump has threatened to withdraw federal funding from states that maintain such ‘sanctuary policies’.
Attorney General Austin Knudsen stated that Helena could face penalties of up to $10,000 for every five days it is found in violation of a 2021 state law requiring local cooperation with federal immigration agents. The contentious resolution from Helena effectively mandates that officials refrain from disclosing any sensitive information regarding a person’s immigration status or national origin.
“This is clearly the City Council of Helena thumbing its nose at the Montana Legislature,” Knudsen remarked during the press conference regarding the investigation.
While Helena officials acknowledge awareness of the investigation, they claim not to have received any official notice. The city asserts that the resolution was passed following careful review of relevant legal statutes. They expressed confidence that the resolution aligns with legal obligations, reinforcing their commitment to adhering to federal and state laws.
Almost half of the states nationwide currently have laws against sanctuary cities, according to the Federation for American Immigration Reform. At the press conference, Knudsen was joined by Republican Governor Greg Gianforte, who commented on the adverse situations federal agents face, referencing incidents where federal officers fatally shot protesters in Minnesota. Gianforte emphasized that although these were tragic events, they do not grant local governments the right to flout state laws.
