Trust Act and Immigration Policy

The loss of life under any circumstance is tragic, and it is especially troubling when such incidents occur while individuals are exercising their constitutional right to protest. We have seen an increase in violence at public demonstrations over the last decade, and it is clear that we must work collectively to de-escalate tensions. I support greater collaboration with local law enforcement and the development of clear protocols and training standards that align with established law enforcement practices to help ensure public safety while protecting fundamental rights.

At the same time, there must be accountability. A full and thorough investigation is necessary, and once that occurs, those responsible must be held accountable under the law.

In regards to the Trust Act and communications between enforcement bodies, I voted in favor of its establishment in 2013, as did everyone else in the legislature at that time. In 2019, when we revisited the Trust Act, I voted against both bills because I felt that the legislature was stripping away protections for immigrants in our communities. Removing the involvement of local law enforcement unless the case fulfills one of three categories: (1) a judicial warrant, (2) an A or B felony conviction; or (3) the person is on a terrorist watch list, can actually undermine the safety of immigrants. Local law enforcement live and work in our communities, are well-trained in de-escalation, and have a better general understanding of the circumstances people face in their neighborhoods than a federal officer who traveled there for that sole purpose. Since we cannot prohibit ICE from being in Connecticut, keeping local law enforcement involved was a matter of safety for me, so I voted that way.

Early last year I voted in favor of House Bill 7066, which was the codification of SDE’s policy prohibiting ICE in schools. This is separate from the Trust Act. HB 7066 focuses on interactions between school personnel and federal immigration authorities to ensure that schools remain safe havens for students and their families. It helps bolster prohibitions on federal agents entering schools. Our schools must be places of learning, safety, and stability, where students can grow and thrive without fear.

Later in 2025, I voted against HB 7529, another bill that I thought undermined the safety of immigrants by “expanding” the Trust Act to say that no one from local or state law enforcement can get involved or help in these situations. That help and training could go a very long way to avoid violence or wrongful apprehension. And finally, in 2025 special session in November, I voted in support of HB 8004, which had provisions in it that prohibit federal immigration agents from being inside our courthouses.

So, starting in 2013 and on record ever since, I have supported what I believe the Trust Act is meant to do.

I also strongly support increased funding for immigration and refugee services. Since our founding in 1633, Connecticut has been a welcoming home for immigrants and for political, religious, and human rights refugees. Continuing this tradition by investing in these services strengthens our communities and helps ensure that all residents have the opportunity to contribute to our state’s shared growth and prosperity.