Columbus City Council to Vote on ICE Restrictions

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The Columbus City Council is set to vote on a series of measures that would restrict federal immigration enforcement officers from accessing city-owned properties and prohibit city employees from also working for ICE or U.S. Customs and Border Patrol. The proposed legislation also aims to make it a first-degree misdemeanor to harass, stalk or obstruct civilians at schools and daycares.

Why it matters

The vote reflects ongoing tensions between local governments and federal immigration enforcement, with Columbus joining other cities that have sought to limit ICE's presence and activities within their jurisdictions. The measures are intended to protect immigrant communities and ensure access to public services without fear of detention or deportation.

The details

The proposed ordinances would ban ICE agents from using city parking lots, garages, recreation centers and other public, city-owned properties. Councilmembers also want to pass legislation prohibiting the construction of new detention centers in Columbus. Additionally, the vote includes a measure that would make it a first-degree misdemeanor to harass, stalk or obstruct civilians at schools and daycares.

• The Columbus City Council is set to vote on the measures on Monday, February 23, 2026.

What’s next

If the measures are approved, the city will begin enforcing the new restrictions on ICE access and activities within Columbus.