Massachusetts Governor Files Bill to Limit Federal Immigration Enforcement

Healey's legislation would prohibit ICE from entering sensitive areas like schools, hospitals, and churches

Jan. 29, 2026 at 9:47pm

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Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey announced new legislation that would limit federal immigration enforcement in the state. The bill would prohibit ICE from entering schools, hospitals, churches, and courthouses, and would also require the governor's permission before another state can deploy its National Guard in Massachusetts.

Why it matters

The governor said the legislation is necessary to address heightened fears in immigrant communities and restore trust in local government, as current ICE tactics under the Trump administration have led to declining school enrollment, people avoiding medical care, and victims and witnesses of crimes being afraid to testify.

The details

The bill would make it against the law for ICE to make civil arrests in non-public areas of state facilities and prohibit the use of state property for immigration enforcement. Governor Healey also signed an executive order to the same effect. The announcement was met with criticism from those who disagree with the governor's strategy, including the state Republican Party chair.

  • Governor Healey announced the new legislation on Thursday, January 30, 2026.

The players

Governor Maura Healey

The current Governor of Massachusetts who announced the new legislation to limit federal immigration enforcement in the state.

Tom Hodgson

The former Bristol Sheriff who criticized Governor Healey's actions, saying she is putting her "political ideology and agenda before the public safety and people of Massachusetts."

Amy Carnevale

The Massachusetts Republican Party Chair who blasted Governor Healey's actions, saying they will "exacerbate tensions" and put communities at "greater risk for chaotic law enforcement."

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What they’re saying

“We have sensitive areas. We expect the federal government, Donald Trump, Kristi Noem, and ICE agents to respect our sensitive areas.”

— Governor Maura Healey

“ICE has no business being anywhere where people are seeking medical aid, seeking to worship, seeking education. No one should have to live in fear.”

— Will Sanna, Registered Nurse

“The governor ought to be ashamed of herself. We aren't surprised though because she's been consistent with putting her political ideology and agenda before the public safety and people of Massachusetts.”

— Tom Hodgson, Former Bristol Sheriff

What’s next

The Massachusetts state legislature will need to vote on and pass the bill proposed by Governor Healey in order for it to become law.

The takeaway

This legislation highlights the ongoing tensions between state and federal governments over immigration enforcement, with the governor seeking to protect immigrant communities while critics argue it will undermine public safety. The outcome could have significant implications for how immigration is policed in Massachusetts.