Governor Maura Healey of Massachusetts is preparing to introduce new statewide guidelines for schools, daycares, hospitals, and places of worship regarding their interactions with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This move is part of a broader effort to define the role of state institutions in federal immigration enforcement.

Background on Executive Order

Earlier this year, Governor Healey signed an executive order that limited new agreements between local law enforcement and ICE, unless there is a clear public safety need. The order also restricted ICE from conducting civil arrests in non-public areas of state facilities and prohibited the use of state property for immigration enforcement staging.

Additionally, the legislation aims to prevent other states from deploying their National Guard to Massachusetts without explicit permission. It also includes provisions to help parents make arrangements for their children in the event of detainment or deportation, reflecting a focus on family stability and parental rights.

Federal Concerns and State Response

The new guidance comes amid ongoing discussions between the Healey administration and the assistant U.S. attorney general. The federal government has expressed concerns over Massachusetts’ policy of limiting confidential license plates to criminal investigations, arguing that ICE operations, being civil in nature, are at risk. The federal authorities claim this policy endangers ICE agents by increasing the potential for doxxing.

Governor Healey is expected to address these issues in a press conference at the Massachusetts State House, where she will be joined by Health and Human Services Secretary Kiame Mahaniah, ORI’s Executive Director Cristina Aguilera Sandoval, and various faith leaders. The event underscores the administration’s commitment to balancing immigration enforcement with the protection of individual and family rights.

Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.