Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen announced an investigation into Helena for its refusal to assist U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The declaration was made with Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte, who indicated that Helena might be violating Montana’s 2021 law prohibiting sanctuary cities. Gianforte referenced recent incidents in Minnesota involving ICE to highlight the urgency of compliance with state laws.
Gianforte emphasized, “In 2021 I signed House Bill 200. This legislation explicitly bans sanctuary cities in the state of Montana. Under this law, no state or local government can enact policies that refuse cooperation with federal immigration authorities.”
The Helena resolution advises local police to avoid collaborating with ICE, following strong advocacy from immigration supporters. The Helena City Commission’s vote attracted public attention, with hundreds attending the meeting. The resolution prevents the Helena Police Department from entering 287(g) agreements with ICE and mandates officials to ask ICE agents to identify themselves unless it impedes their work.
The measure stops Helena from sharing residents’ immigration details without court orders. Knudsen criticized the resolution, urging Helena to comply with state law. “The city of Helena does not make state law,” Knudsen noted, urging the city to engage in legislative processes if it wishes to change the law.
Helena’s public information officer, Amanda Opitz, acknowledged the investigation but noted the city hasn’t received official communication from the state’s leadership. According to Opitz, the resolution complies with existing local, state, and federal laws.
Helena’s regulatory actions on immigration were prompted by the controversial arrest of Christopher Martinez Marvan. Protests and public outcry have followed, with Montanans questioning local policies regarding federal immigration enforcement.
Knudsen stated Helena is the only Montana city currently in focus. Despite concerns about Missoula, no similar resolutions exist there, and city officials have clarified their stance against sanctuary policies. Missoula’s leadership has reaffirmed their position on not enforcing immigration status.
Recent cases of ICE-related violence have spurred protests across Montana, with citizens demanding local government action. Knudsen pointed out that state law mandates cooperation with Homeland Security and penalizes noncompliant cities. Helena faces fines and potential impacts on state funding due to its current stance.
—
Read More Montana News
